Whale head washes up on Perth beach

The head of a whale, believed to be a sperm whale, has washed up on a Perth beach, causing its closure.

The Department of Parks and Wildlife says the remains are about 800m north of the Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club, not near the main swimming area of Sorrento beach.

The whale head, which is three metres long and 1.5m wide, will be removed by authorities.

Rangers from the city of Joondalup have closed the beach until further notice.

The Fisheries Department warns water users between Ocean Reef and Scarborough beach to be extra cautious of sharks.

"It is possible that the whale carcass may act as an attractant that could lead to sharks coming close in to shore along this stretch of coast," the department said.

Shark sightings should be reported to Water Police on 9442 8600.