| Stranding of sperm whales <i>Physeter macrocephalus</i> L., 1758 in the countries bordering the North Sea has been documented since the end of the 16th century. All known strandings in this area are summarized. There is no clear temporal pattern in the occurrence of sperm whales in the North Sea except that there are very few strandings between the late 18th and early 20th century. All sperm whales of which details are known have been males, ranging from about 12 to 18 m in size. Most strandings occur during the period November-February. It seems likely that the majority of sperm whales enter the North Sea during southward migration. If the animals do not find their way out in time, they become weakened and many will die at sea or become... |
