BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – A hammerhead shark was found stranded on Kuta Beach, near Popies 1 and Kutabex Market, on Thursday (January 15) at around 11:30 WITA. The shark was initially carried back out to sea by strong currents before washing ashore again the following morning.
Kuta Beach Destination Management head I Nyoman Arya Arimbawa confirmed that the shark was identified as a hammerhead based on its distinct physical characteristics. “From its shape, especially the wide head, it was clearly a hammerhead shark,” Arya said on Friday (January 16, 2026).
When authorities first attempted to secure the animal for burial using heavy equipment, high tide conditions caused the carcass to be pulled back into the ocean. “The waves and rising tide dragged it back out to sea. It washed ashore again this morning and was then successfully buried,” he explained.
According to Arya, the shark was found in intact condition when first discovered, with no visible signs of missing organs or injuries. The incident drew the attention of tourists in the area, as Kuta Beach was busy at the time.
Local authorities, including the Environmental and Forestry Agency (DLHK), are expected to conduct further analysis to determine the exact cause of the stranding. However, preliminary assessments suggest seasonal western winds and strong currents as the most likely factors.
“During the west monsoon, strong currents often affect Kuta Beach. It’s not only sharks, sea turtles are also known to strand here due to waves pushing from the west,” Arya said.