Rare Bryde's Whales Spotted Feeding Near Koh Sichang Shoreline
Two Bryde's whales were seen feeding near Koh Sichang, thrilling locals and visitors and underscoring the region's thriving marine ecosystem
Key Points
- 1Two Bryde's whales were sighted feeding near Koh Sichang on October 4
- 2A local resident captured and shared video footage of the whales lunging for anchovies
- 3Such sightings are rare and highlight the abundance of small fish in the area
- 4Bryde's whales are a protected species under Thai law
- 5The event suggests a healthy marine ecosystem off Koh Sichang and Si Racha
Tourists and residents near Koh Sichang in Chon Buri were treated to a rare spectacle on October 4, when a pair of Bryde's whales surfaced close to the island's shore. The whales were captured on video as they lunged rhythmically from the sea, mouths agape, chasing shoals of anchovies. The footage quickly circulated in local social media groups, drawing excitement from the community
Sightings of Bryde's whales at such close range are uncommon in the Gulf of Thailand. As described in the video, the whales approached the shoreline, exhaling tall sprays of mist and diving back under as they pursued their prey. "It's worth coming to Koh Sichang. Two Bryde's whales," wrote Jutavad Chaipakdee, who posted the video to a local Facebook group
According to Bangkok Post (Thailand), the presence of Bryde's whales in the waters off Koh Sichang and Si Racha is seen as a positive sign of the area's rich marine ecosystem. These whales rely on abundant small fish, such as anchovies, which indicates healthy sea life in the region. Bryde's whales are protected under Thai law and are considered a rare species in the Gulf
For visitors and locals on Koh Samui, this sighting highlights the ongoing vitality of Thailand's marine environments and the rewards of responsible eco-tourism. Encounters like this serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving marine habitats, not just for rare wildlife but for the entire island community
