Living in Island County means being part of a dynamic environment where the marine ecosystem sometimes brings unexpected events to our shores. Recently, a deceased juvenile Gray whale was found on the west side of Whidbey Island, and we understand many of you have questions and concerns about how this will be handled and what occurred.
This marks the 15th deceased Gray whale found in Puget Sound this year. Unfortunately, NOAA and Cascadia Research were unable to complete a necropsy due to the whale's advanced state of decomposition. Many of these deaths are related to starvation. The whales migrate round-trip every year between their Arctic feeding grounds and coastal lagoons in Mexico where mothers often nurse their calves. They are now on their northbound migration. Samples were collected, and we will be notified when those test results are finalized.
In the meantime, the whale will be left to decompose naturally, which is a vital part of the ecosystem's cycle. This process can provide sustenance for thousands of animals. Yes, it can be quite odorous, and the whale may remain in place or drift to new locations. NOAA has determined that allowing the whale to decay naturally wherever it lands is the best course of action.
For your safety, please maintain a distance of at least 100 feet from the whale. There are multiple potential health hazards associated with an animal of this size. Please ensure you, your children, and your pets remain a safe distance away.
We have compiled additional resources if you would like to learn more about this topic, including a list of contacts if you ever encounter a marine mammal in need.
Learn more:
To Report Strandings in Island, Skagit and North Snohomish County
State Reporting Hotlines
To report a dead, injured, or stranded marine mammal along the West Coast (i.e., off California, Oregon, and Washington):
To report entangled marine mammals:
- Entanglement Reporting Hotline: 1-877-SOS-WHAL or 1-877-767-9425
- The U.S. Coast Guard: VHF Ch. 16
To report harassments and other violations to law enforcement:
- NOAA Enforcement Hotline: 1-800-853-1964
To report derelict gear:
- Derelict Gear Hotline: 1-855-542-3935