Wojtek was an independent Polish researcher and a deeply dedicated expert on beaked whales (Ziphiidae). For many years, he untiringly managed the Beaked Whales World Stranding Database, collaborating with marine mammal scientists and institutions across the globe.
Whenever we had a beaked whale stranding, Wojtek was the person I would first send it to. I knew how keen he was to examine every detail and share his thoughts on each case. Wojtek never hesitated to share his vast knowledge of beaked whales with IWDG. If I was unsure of species ID, he was the person I would contact, and nine times out of ten, he would respond almost immediately with every image studied in detail.
The last animal Wojtek assisted IWDG in identifying was a Gervais’ beaked whale that stranded in West Clare back in May 2026. We had our doubts about the species, and Wojtek came back to me almost immediately, full of excitement: “Wow, Europaeus! Amazing, Gervais is very rare in Ireland.”
His knowledge was immense, but what I will remember most was how willing and excited he always was to share it. My last communication with Wojtek was on August 31st, when we discussed a live-stranded beaked whale at Helvic Head, Co. Waterford. It is difficult to believe that would be our last exchange. He died on September 18th 2026.
Wojtek’s sudden passing has come as a great shock and is a tremendous loss to the cetacean research community in Ireland and much further afield. Both myself and my predecessor, Mick O’ Connell, will always be grateful for his generosity, his knowledge, and the time he gave so freely over the years. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who knew him.
Rest in peace, Wojtek. You will be greatly missed.
Stephanie Levesque, IWDG