Dead whale on New Jersey’s Long Beach Island is first of the year, stranding group says
A dead whale has been discovered on New Jersey’s Long Beach Island, marking the first whale stranding of the year in the area, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.
The 15-foot-long whale was found washed up on the beach in the Holgate section of Long Beach Island by a passerby on Monday morning. The cause of death is currently unknown, but experts from the Marine Mammal Stranding Center are working to determine the cause through a necropsy.
Whale strandings are not uncommon in New Jersey, with the state averaging around 10 to 15 strandings per year. However, this is the first stranding of the year, and experts are concerned about what it could mean for the whale population in the area.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is urging beachgoers to report any stranded marine animals they come across, as prompt reporting can help experts determine the cause of death and potentially prevent further deaths in the future.
Whale strandings can be caused by a variety of factors, including disease, entanglement in fishing gear, ship strikes, and environmental changes. The necropsy on the dead whale will help experts determine the cause of death and potentially shed light on any larger issues affecting the whale population in the area.
In the meantime, beachgoers are urged to stay away from the dead whale and any other stranded marine animals they may come across. Touching or approaching a stranded animal can be dangerous, as they may be carrying diseases or parasites that can be harmful to humans.
The discovery of the dead whale on Long Beach Island serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving marine life. By reporting stranded animals and taking steps to prevent further deaths, we can help ensure the health and well-being of the whale population in New Jersey and beyond.
