A whale that washed ashore alive in Santa Cruz on Thursday has died, the city said.
Marine mammal agencies responded after the whale was discovered at Cowell Beach. According to the city, the fin whale died after experts determined it was severely emaciated and showed signs of long-term illness.
The UC Santa Cruz Long Marine Laboratory Stranding Network, with support from The Marine Mammal Center, has been managing the response alongside city of Santa Cruz marine safety personnel.
“Responding agencies are now working with the City and Santa Cruz Fire Department to determine the safest approach for removing the whale, while protecting public safety, surrounding infrastructure, and opportunities for scientific research,” the city said.
The immediate area surrounding the whale has been closed off and the city is asking people to avoid the area.
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