On Wednesday, a video began circulating on social media showing an injured whale swimming weakly about two miles offshore from Los Cerritos Beach in La Paz.
Although it is believed that the injuries might have been caused by a boat collision, this has not been officially confirmed by environmental authorities.
The images reveal the cetacean with obvious injuries between its dorsal fin and blowhole.
According to a citizen report, the animal is slowly moving toward the shore, raising concerns among marine conservation groups and observers.
This sighting is unusual, as the whale-watching season in Baja California Sur officially ended in April.
The presence of such marine mammals in the area during the following months is uncommon, which heightens interest in this case.
After the video was shared, the Mexico Marine Wildlife Rescue Center stated that “unfortunately, this whale will not make it,” and advised documenting the visible injuries with photos.
They urged immediate notification of the PROFEPA (Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection) if the whale strands near populated areas.
Local authorities and organizations are monitoring the situation and taking steps to help the whale.
During the most recent whale-watching season at least 70 dead whales were reported in the state, according to official records and environmental organizations.