A study conducted by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA) along with the American University of Sharjah and Zayed University has revealed alarming findings about the deaths of seven whales along the coasts of the UAE. Over a period of nearly seven years, researchers analyzed tissues from five Bryde’s whales, one Blue whale, and a Humpback whale.
The investigation concluded that collisions with ships, entanglement in fishing gear, and ingestion of plastic waste were the primary causes of death for these majestic creatures. The deceased whales were discovered along the shores of Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, and Khor Fakkan.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, chairperson of the EPAA, highlighted the presence of pollutants and heavy metals in the whales’ tissues. She emphasized that collisions with ships and entanglement in fishing gear, particularly sturdy ropes, were significant contributors to the fatalities. Additionally, plastic waste in the oceans posed a grave threat, as the whales often ingested bags and containers, leading to digestive tract blockages and eventual death.