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Dead Humpback Whale Found on Corolla Shores

Dead juvenile humpback whale washed ashore in Corolla, North Carolina

News Summary

A juvenile female humpback whale has washed ashore in Corolla, North Carolina, prompting a response from local marine specialists. The whale, measuring approximately 30 feet, displayed visible injuries and is part of a concerning trend of humpback whale strandings along the East Coast. Community members expressed mixed feelings of fascination and sadness as recovery efforts and examinations are underway to uncover the cause of its death.

Curiosity and Concern as Dead Humpback Whale Washes Ashore in Corolla, N.C.

In a striking turn of events, a dead juvenile female humpback whale was discovered washed up on the shores of Corolla, North Carolina. The marine mammal was spotted in the surf zone just north of Shad Street, prompting a flurry of activity from local officials and marine specialists.

Community Response and Initial Assessment

As the news spread, members of the Outer Banks Marine Mammal Stranding Network quickly mobilized to assess the situation. They carefully documented the whale, recording basic details and snapping some scientific photos to better understand this unfortunate incident. The presence of a washed-up whale is both intriguing and heartbreaking—a true spectacle of nature that reminds us of the mysteries of marine life.

Recovery Plans and Examination

In light of current conditions, officials are considering pulling the whale further up the beach for a thorough examination and a necropsy, which could provide insights into its untimely death. The team at the North Carolina Aquariums is on-site, ready to perform an external examination followed by the necessary necropsy procedures. Both experts and volunteers are working together to approach the situation with care and precision.

A Bittersweet Sight

bittersweet moment. While some were captivated by the rare sight, others felt a wave of sadness wash over them, knowing the whale’s story had come to an unexpected end. It’s not every day that something as magnificent as a whale appears on the beach, and many of those there had never witnessed a marine mammal washed ashore before.

Size and Condition of the Whale

30 feet long when it was found floating belly-up in the waves. Marine biologists noticed visible injuries on the whale’s body, including predator bites, which may provide clues about the animal’s final moments. Unfortunately, the whale remained in the surf as of Thursday evening, complicating efforts for its recovery and examination.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

humpback whales are currently experiencing what experts call an unusual mortality event, which has been ongoing since 2016. In 2025 alone, six dead humpback whales have been observed along the coast of North Carolina, highlighting a worrying pattern. It’s also noteworthy that prior to this recent find, a female juvenile humpback was spotted deceased in Kitty Hawk just a few months ago in late December 2024.

Wider Implications and Future Monitoring

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that close to 90 whales have perished off the East Coast since late 2022. The ongoing investigations into these strandings will help researchers gather critical data about the health of whale populations and the challenges they face in their marine habitats.