SEASIDE, Ore. — The cause of death of an endangered fin whale that washed ashore in Oregon remains a mystery. However, the decomposing marine giant offers a unique spectacle for beachgoers and a valuable learning opportunity.
“While it’s a tragic event, it also provides a rare educational experience,” said Tiffany Boothe, the assistant manager of the Seaside Aquarium, on Thursday. She noted that this is only the second time in approximately 30 years that a deceased fin whale has been found in Oregon.
Boothe cautioned the public against touching the whale, as it could potentially carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets. “And let’s not forget the smell,” she added. ”It’s hard to put into words, but it smells exactly like what it is – a dead whale.”
The 46-foot male whale was discovered on Monday morning at Sunset Beach State Park, south of Warrenton, entangled in a rope.
Before officials could investigate the rope and the type of fishing gear it was associated with, someone removed it. “The person likely had good intentions, as the whale was still in the surf and appeared to be alive,” Boothe explained. “They probably thought they were helping to free a live animal.”
Despite the severe entanglement, the whale wasn’t trapped for long, and the rope didn’t cause its death. The exact cause of death, which left the whale emaciated, will be determined in a few weeks following a necropsy conducted on Tuesday, according to Boothe.
The whale’s decomposition will naturally enrich the local environment. “It’s a massive nutrient boost, feeding scavengers from eagles and ravens to tiny amphipods,” Boothe said.
Allowing the whale to decompose naturally reflects a more informed approach compared to 1970 when officials decided to use dynamite to dispose of a dead whale that washed ashore in southern Oregon. “Such an incident wouldn’t happen now,” Boothe said, recalling how the explosion sent large pieces of whale carcass flying into the sky and even damaged a car.
Agree
Fascinating insight into the circle of life and the importance of these majestic creatures even in death.
Agree – A truly profound experience witnessing the natural process of decomposition and learning from it.