Sad news! A male Irrawaddy dolphin carcass was found stranded on Ban Ta Nuek beach, Khlong Yai district, Trat province. It is estimated to have been dead for over two weeks, with the body in a severely decomposed state, making it impossible to identify the precise cause of death. Since early 2026, more than 10 whales and dolphins have been found dead in the Trat Bay area.
On 9 August 2026, Mr. Praphan Jarungsilp, headman of Village No. 5, Ban Ta Nuek, Khlong Yai subdistrict, Khlong Yai district, Trat province, received a report from locals who found a dolphin carcass stranded along the beach while walking there. He coordinated with the Rayong Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Center to inspect the site.
Officials identified the carcass as a male Irrawaddy dolphin approximately 190 centimeters long, at full maturity. The body was heavily decomposed and emitting a strong odor disturbing the beach area. It is believed the dolphin died about two weeks ago.
Mr. Bowornnan Jitphong, fisheries officer at the Rayong Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Center, revealed that the autopsy found many fish and squid fragments inside the stomach, indicating the dolphin was still feeding normally before death. The overall physical condition was relatively intact, though there appeared to be marks resembling rope bindings.
However, due to severe decomposition with muscle and internal organs deteriorated, it was impossible to clearly determine the cause of death. Officials collected all data to report to the research center.
Subsequently, the research center officials, together with the village headman and local residents of Ban Ta Nuek, helped dig a pit and bury the dolphin carcass to prevent odor and health issues in the area.
This discovery of the Irrawaddy dolphin carcass has saddened local residents. Preliminary data indicate that in 2026, more than 10 whales and dolphins have died in the Trat Bay area, prompting questions about the causes of death among rare marine animals in the region.