AMCS Performs Necropsy on Stranded Humpback Whale in Long Beach
On Friday, May 18, 2018, Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) received a report of a stranded deceased humpback whale in Long Beach late in the afternoon. Because of the time and location, AMCS biologists and volunteers went onsite to conduct the necropsy the following morning. Despite the poor weather conditions, they were able to perform the examination on the juvenile female that was just under 32 feet in length.
AMCS completed the necropsy on the humpback whale on Saturday, May 19, 2018 with support from Mystic Aquarium, City of Long Beach, City of Long Beach Public Works, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, U.S. Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries, and Town of Hempstead. Initial findings showed extensive bruising consistent with vessel strike. Samples were taken to be sent to a pathologist to help confirm a cause of death. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement is also investigating the whale’s death as there is an ongoing Unusual Mortality Event (UME) for humpback whales.
While we understand and appreciate the public interest of this animal, it is important to note that the public should keep the minimum distance of 150 feet away from live and deceased marine mammals at all times as they are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The public should not touch these animals as there are safety and disease transmission risks. Learn more about viewing guidelines for various species here:
https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines#guidelines-&-distances
As a nonprofit organization, we truly appreciate all of the organizations involved that were instrumental in these efforts. We ask that the public help by reporting strandings to the NYS Stranding Hotline by calling 631.369.9829.
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