Mesoplodon whale found dead on shore of Playa Grande

Mesoplodons are a genus of beaked whales belonging to the Ziphiidae family, a group of deep-diving cetaceans known for inhabiting remote ocean waters far from the coast. These whales are generally difficult to observe because they spend long periods underwater at great depths and surface only briefly. The group includes around 14 recognized species and is considered one of the most abundant whale families in the world’s oceans.

Authorities noted that the appearance of the whale near the coastline of Río San Juan is unusual because these animals typically live in deep waters. Environmental officials are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the animal’s death and what may have caused it to wash ashore.