This work reports a stranding of a dwarf minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in 2004 in Caju Bay at Delta of Parnaiba River, Maranhão State (MA), Brazil. The specimen and the maturity characteristics were identified through skull measurements and morphology. Osteological analyses were carried out and abnormal growth of occipital bones was observed. It is premature at this point to suggest that the dwarf minke whale occurs regularly off the north coast of Brazil; however, more information needs to be collected to assess whether the occurrence of the dwarf minke whale is common in this area.
