Community Corner

Dead Humpback Whale Washes Up On Island Beach State Park

The whale died after a boat propeller cut through its spine, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

A dead humpback whale washed up on the shore of Island Beach State Park.
A dead humpback whale washed up on the shore of Island Beach State Park. (Courtesy of CBS3)

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK, NJ — A dead humpback whale washed up ashore last weekend at Island Beach State Park. The 30-foot whale died after a propeller cut through its spine and it was hit by a boat, according to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

The whale was found beached but alive Saturday by a fisherman about two miles away, according to CBS3. The whale went back into the water but resurfaced.

The creature died after struggling for days with injuries, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center said. The organization has been on scene trying to figure out why the whale couldn't avoid the boat.

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“Our equipment is taking a beating, and we sure could use some funds right about now," the Marine Mammal Stranding Center wrote. "Please don't wait for our plea on Giving Tuesday- give now to help us to continue our work!"

CBS3 footage showed crews working on the whale at the beach on Monday afternoon.

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See the video below:

A juvenile minke whale got stranded last month at Island Beach State Park. Although Marine Mammal Stranding Center staff raced to the whale, it died by the time they arrived. Read more: Stranded Whale Dies On Island Beach State Park

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