Stranded sperm whale in Kolaka handled with sinking method

A resident carries a child while observing the carcass of a stranded sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) on the coast of Totobo village, Kolaka regency, Southeast Sulawesi, Wednesday (March 4, 2026). The Makassar Coastal and Marine Resources Management Agency (BPSPL) Kolaka working unit says sinking, or sea burial, is the only appropriate method given the stranding location to mitigate the foul odor that has begun to emerge. ANTARA FOTO/Andry Denisah/tom/M052.

An aerial view shows the carcass of a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) stranded and beginning to bleed on the coast of Totobo village, Kolaka regency, Southeast Sulawesi, Wednesday (March 4, 2026). The Makassar Coastal and Marine Resources Management Agency (BPSPL) Kolaka working unit says sinking, or sea burial, is the only suitable method given the stranding location to mitigate the foul odor. ANTARA FOTO/Andry Denisah/tom/M052.

A resident documents the carcass of a stranded sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) on the coast of Totobo village, Kolaka regency, Southeast Sulawesi, Wednesday (March 4, 2026). The Makassar Coastal and Marine Resources Management Agency (BPSPL) Kolaka working unit says sinking, or sea burial, is the only suitable method given the stranding location to mitigate the emerging foul odor. ANTARA FOTO/Andry Denisah/tom/M052