New Jersey’s Long Beach Island has recently become the focus of attention as a post-mortem examination of a whale that washed ashore revealed evidence of significant blunt force injuries. The nearly 25-foot juvenile male humpback whale was found dead in Long Beach Township, showing signs of a fractured skull and vertebrae, as well as multiple dislocated ribs and a dislocated shoulder bone. These injuries, including bruising around the head, are indicative of blunt force trauma, according to observations released by the Marine Mammal Stranding Center following a necropsy.
Director Sheila Dean highlighted the severity of the injuries, emphasizing the need for extensive testing as part of the necropsy process. At this stage, no specific cause has been attributed to the injuries, with tissue samples sent to laboratories across the country for further analysis. The animal’s demise has sparked interest among various groups, particularly in light of ongoing controversies surrounding offshore wind power projects and their potential impact on marine life along the U.S. East Coast.
Despite claims by opponents of offshore wind power linking whale deaths to site preparation work for such projects, scientific agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have found no evidence supporting these allegations. The stranding center’s website noted that this incident marked New Jersey’s first whale death of the year, following a total of 14 in the previous year. Leading Light Wind, a company involved in proposed wind farms off the New Jersey coast, emphasized the importance of minimizing risks to wildlife while ensuring the offshore wind industry coexists harmoniously with marine ecosystems.
Further examination of the deceased whale revealed signs of past entanglement with fishing gear, highlighting additional challenges faced by marine wildlife in the region. Scars from a previous entanglement were found on various parts of the whale’s body, underscoring the need for continued efforts to protect and preserve marine life in the area. As investigations into the whale’s cause of death continue, stakeholders remain dedicated to finding sustainable solutions that prioritize the well-being of both marine creatures and the environment.