Rare Juvenile Minke Whale Euthanized After Repeated Strandings in San Francisco Bay

Marine mammal experts opted for humane euthanasia after the whale's condition deteriorated, with a necropsy underway to investigate its unusual behavior.

The juvenile minke whale, first spotted on April 2 near Emeryville, was one of only five documented sightings of the species in the Bay Area in 16 years.
The whale repeatedly stranded itself in shallow waters over the past week, exhibiting abnormal behavior and signs of distress, including labored breathing and sunburned skin.
Intervention efforts included spraying water to prevent further skin damage and monitoring its condition, but the whale's mobility and health worsened over time.
On April 9, marine mammal specialists made the decision to humanely euthanize the whale to alleviate its suffering after observing its deteriorating state.
A necropsy is currently being conducted to determine the underlying causes of the whale's repeated strandings and unusual behavior.

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