Whale carcass washed ashore on Quang Tri beach
VOV.VN - A dead whale weighing approximately 300kg has been found washed up on a beach in Vinh Thai commune of Quang Tri province, central Vietnam, said local authorities on January 14.
The whale’s body, which is roughly four metres in length, was discovered by local fishermen on January 13 evening in a heavily decomposed state, with only its skin and bones remaining, said authorities.
The whale carcass was subsequently buried following traditional rituals.
The phenomenon of whales washing ashore is not uncommon in the coastal provinces of central Vietnam, often occurring due to illness, injury, or natural death of the whales.
In the local fishermen’s belief, whales are considered sacred, akin to protective deities, often helping rescue fishermen when they go out to sea or face difficulties at sea.
Therefore, fishermen often rescue whales they have found run aground or bury them in solemn ceremonies in the event that they are found dead.
All along the Vietnamese coast whales are revered as bringers of good fortune for those at sea. Temples and festivals worshipping the creatures are commonly found in communities close to the sea.
