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Massive Carcass on Welsh Beach Identified as Fin Whale

Researchers plan toxicology, genetic tests after a rare stranding on the Welsh coast.

Overview

  • Passersby found the heavily decomposed remains on 3 September at Cefn Sidan Beach in Pembrey, measuring about 21 meters with a head roughly six meters long.
  • Marine biologists concluded the carcass is a fin whale, likely a female, after initial uncertainty caused by advanced decomposition.
  • Authorities collected multiple samples for contamination screening and genetic analysis, with laboratory results pending.
  • This marks only the fourth recorded fin whale to wash ashore on the Welsh coast this century, underscoring the event’s scientific value.
  • Local groups report more whale strandings in the region, including a nine‑meter pilot whale found at Rhossili Bay two days earlier that died despite rescue efforts.