Authorities investigate carved initials on gray whale carcass on Whidbey Island

Authorities are investigating after initials were carved into a gray whale carcass on Whidbey Island.

OAK HARBOR, Wash. — Authorities confirmed reports that someone carved initials into the carcass of a gray whale that washed ashore on Whidbey Island earlier this week.

In a statement, Cascadia Research, a group of researchers and activists who advocate for ecosystems in the Cascadia bioregion, confirmed markings had been carved into the whale’s skin. 

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Garry Heinrich, a member of the Central Puget Sound Marine Mammal Stranding Network, an environmental group that responds to marine mammals trapped or deceased on beaches, called the desecration of the gray whales’ carcass “disrespectful.”

“Yes, there were initials disrespectfully carved into the gray whale. I have not discovered if it is a violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act because the whale is deceased. It’s a violation in so many ways, but still trying to find out [the details],” said Heinrich.

According to the group, the whale was first reported floating Wednesday along the west side of Whidbey Island. Video from the scene showed the whale drifting near West Beach Road at North Sunset Beach.

The Island County Sheriff’s Office later said on social media that the whale washed ashore.

Officials with the NOAA Marine Mammal Stranding Network have been notified and are expected to assess the whale. NOAA enforcement will handle an investigation of the desecration.

Marine mammals, including whales, sea lions, seals and sea otters, are protected by the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. Disturbing a carcass without a permit can be a felony and can result in up to $36,498 in civil penalties — plus criminal fines for more egregious or intentional violations — and up to one year in prison, according to NOAA.

The whale is the 19th gray whale found dead in Washington waters this year, a record number that has raised concerns about ongoing threats to the species. 

Since March 2, the Cascadia Research Collective has documented stranded gray whales in several areas across Washington, including near Anacortes, Ocean Shores, Sequim, Deception Pass and Long Beach. Researchers say many of the whales appeared to be malnourished.

Cascadia Research founder John Calambokidis previously told KING 5 that starvation is believed to be a major factor in many of the deaths, with climate change reducing food supplies in Alaska and Arctic feeding areas.

Anyone who encounters an injured or stranded marine mammal is urged to contact the marine mammal stranding hotline at 1-866-767-6114. Officials also advise the public not to approach marine mammals.

To report violations of the Marine Mammal Act, such as people feeding, attempting to feed, or harassing marine animals in the wild, call NOAA Fisheries’ Enforcement Hotline at (800) 853-1964. Information may be left anonymously.