Dead Grey Whale

Observation: Beached decaying grey whale washed up on Middle Beach, no apparent cause of death. Whale is approximately 40-45 feet long. Possible health hazard to public. Michael Sloan

Resources:

Alaska Marine Mammal Stranding Network (AMMSN) "was created to provide a consistent framework in which to collect and compile data about marine mammal strandings throughout the entire state. The network is composed of state and federal wildlife and fisheries agencies, veterinary clinics, Alaska Native organizations, academic institutions, and individuals who respond to or provide professional advice on handling strandings." Source: Alaska Regional Office, NOAA Fisheries

Office of Protected Resources: Why do marine mammals strand? In most stranding cases, the cause of stranding is unknown, but some identified causes include:

• disease
• parasite infestation
• harmful algal blooms
• injuries due to ship strikes
• fishery entanglements
• pollution exposure
• trauma
• starvation

For additional information check out the, Publications in Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response website or the FAQs re: Whale, Dolphin, Seal, and Sea Lion (Marine Mammal) Strandings Source: NOAA Fisheries