The remains of a whale found on Palma Sola beach, at the weekend
are feared to be that of the albino grey whale that was recently seen at
Laguna Ojo del Liebre.
The recent sighting of the very rare albino had caused
much excitement as it was believed to be the reappearance of an albino whale
born in the Laguna in 2009 but not seen since. It was even reported to have
given birth to a calf of normal colour. Scientists had hoped this would signal
the return of the albino to the waters of Baja California Sur every 2-3 years to
give birth.
The whale was spotted on the beach by locals on Saturday
morning who could see no signs on life. The environmental authorities (PROFEPA)
later confirmed the death of the mammal but have not yet confirmed the cause of death or that it was definitely the recently seen albino.
Sadly this is not the first case this year of a whale
being stranded in Baja California Sur. Several other cases have already been
reported - in Laguna Ojo de Liebre and at this same site in Todos Santos.
More news on the cause of death is expected soon.