Layard's Beaked Whale (Mesoplodon layardi, Flower)

Abstract

ON February 17 a Layard's beaked whale was found stranded on the beach a little south of Zwartkops River, north of Port Elizabeth, by Joseph G. Crawford. The following morning I dispatched my assistant, Mr. Jas. Crawford, to inspect the carcase. He brought the tusks back, when the animal was identified as Layard's beaked whale. Immediate action was taken, with the result that; the skeleton is now mounted in the Port Elizabeth Museum. As the carcase was partially decomposed when discovered, it was impossible to save the skin, but measurements and drawings were taken on the spot, and the coloration of the skin noted.