A gigantic, 45-foot whale carcass washed up on Rockaway Beach after floating off the coast of Long Island.
Video from Chopper 2 shows the huge animal lying in the sand at the Queens beach Thursday. Many people were seen standing against a barrier, taking pictures of it.
A 45-foot whale was found lying on Rockaway Beach in Queens Thursday.
Chopper 2
The Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMSEAS) said they got notification that a sei whale was floating offshore about 15 miles south of Long Island Tuesday.
AMSEAS officials said they are worked with local authorities at the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, and the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation to secure and monitor the animal.
According to a necropsy conducted Friday afternoon, the whale had abrasions and internal bruising that indicated it had likely died after being struck by a vessel, AMSEAS said.
The organization said additional collected samples will be sent to a pathologist for further analysis to confirm the preliminary necropsy findings.
After the necropsy, the whale was buried on site, AMSEAS said.
Sei whales are endangered and are common in the Southeast’s waters. They are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Touching, feeding or harming these animals is illegal.
Officials urge the public to report strandings of marine mammals and sea turtles by calling 631-369-9829. The public can also report sightings of healthy animals by clicking here.
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