Dead Humpback Whale Removed From Rocks Off Beavertail State Park
Saturday, June 24, 2017
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management removed a dead humpback whale from the rocks off Beavertail State Park in Jamestown.
The whale washed up on the rocks last week and was related to an undisclosed location for examination and burial.
“Rhode Islanders are fortunate to live in a state with a wealth of marine life and habitats. We share our oceans with fish, sea turtle, birds and marine mammals, which reminds us of the wonder and power of nature. Seeing whales in our waters is thrilling. And in this unfortunate case where a dead whale was found, it offers an important opportunity for research and education. I cannot say enough about the cooperation, creativity and skill of the DEM staff involved in this operation – as well as those involved in broader conservation efforts that help us all understand and appreciate the great diversity of life in our oceans,” said RI DEM Director Janet Coit.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTA necropsy will be performed by Mystic Aquarium to determine the cause of death.
Humpback Whale Sightings in RI
Humpback whale sightings have recently increased in Rhode Island. They have been spotted in Block Island Sound and other nearby waters.
RI DEM says it is “likely due to the availability of food and efforts to remove and manage environmental threats.”
Humpback whales are protected under the federal Endangered Species and Marine Mammal Protection Acts. People should not approach the mammals, and boat traffic is required under law to stay a certain distance away from whales.
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