Authorities are investigating after initials were carved into a gray whale carcass on Whidbey Island.
OAK HARBOR, Wash. — Authorities are looking into reports that someone carved initials into the carcass of a gray whale that washed ashore on Whidbey Island earlier this week.
In a statement, Cascadia Research confirmed markings had been carved into the whale’s skin.
According to the Cascadia Research Collective, the whale was first reported floating Wednesday along the west side of Whidbey Island. Video from the scene showed the whale drifting near West Beach Road at North Sunset Beach.
The whale is the 19th gray whale found dead in Washington waters this year, a record number that has raised concerns about ongoing threats to the species.
The Island County Sheriff’s Office later said on social media that the whale washed ashore.
Officials with the NOAA Marine Mammal Stranding Network have been notified and are expected to assess the whale. The sheriff’s office said it is awaiting guidance from NOAA on next steps.
Since March 2, the Cascadia Research Collective has documented stranded gray whales in several areas across Washington, including near Anacortes, Ocean Shores, Sequim, Deception Pass and Long Beach. Researchers say many of the whales appeared to be malnourished.
Cascadia Research founder John Calambokidis previously told KING 5 that starvation is believed to be a major factor in many of the deaths, with climate change reducing food supplies in Alaska and Arctic feeding areas.
Anyone who encounters an injured or stranded marine mammal is urged to contact the marine mammal stranding hotline at 1-866-767-6114. Officials also advise the public not to approach marine mammals.
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