Mystic Aquarium Removes Humpback Whale From Beavertail Rocks

JAMESTOWN, RI — The humpback whale carcass that washed ashore a week ago at Beavertail State Park has been taken away. According to Gail Mastrati, spokeswoman for the state Department of Environmental Management, the Mystic Aquarium removed the whale Friday morning. The carcass is going by boat to the aquarium. Mastrati said the post-mortem tests will be completed in Mystic, Conn. Then the whale will be buried.

According to Jamestown's Town Administrator Andy Nota, this situation was unique for the island.

"The Town was pleased to be able to support and offer our services to RIDEM in their coordination with the team from Mystic Aquarium and with RIDEM Administration and enforcement," he said. "This was clearly a unique situation involving a humpback whale, most likely traveling closer to the RI coastline due to changes in our local waters. We remain hopeful that we do not have to mobilize for this type of activity any time in the near future."

Patch will update this story when information becomes available.

File Photo Caption: On Sunday, the whale carcass could be seen washed up on the rocks.