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6d ago

Fifth Dead Whale Found in San Francisco Bay as Investigations Continue

Scientists are conducting necropsies to determine causes of recent whale deaths, including vessel strikes and illness, while monitoring for signs of a new unusual mortality event.

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An Alameda County firefighter hoses down a juvenile Minke whale as it was beached on the shores of Emeryville earlier this month. The whale was later euthanized.
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Overview

  • A fifth dead whale, an adult female gray whale, was found on April 21 at Alameda's South Shore Beach and is being towed to Angel Island for necropsy.
  • The recent deaths include three gray whales and one juvenile minke whale, which was euthanized on April 8 due to severe illness.
  • Preliminary findings suggest one gray whale died from a vessel strike, while the causes of death for others remain under investigation.
  • The strandings coincide with the annual gray whale migration season, during which whales travel from Mexico to Alaska, often passing through San Francisco Bay.
  • The U.S. Coast Guard and ferry operators have issued advisories for mariners to exercise caution due to increased whale activity in the Bay.