LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP, N.J. – A recent post-mortem examination of a whale discovered on the shores of New Jersey’s Long Beach Island revealed severe blunt force injuries, including a fractured skull and vertebrae. The 25-foot juvenile male humpback whale was found lifeless in Long Beach Township, sparking concerns and investigations into the cause of its death.
Director Sheila Dean of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center reported that the whale displayed bruising, multiple fractures, dislocated ribs, and a dislocated shoulder bone, all indicative of blunt force trauma. However, the specific cause of these injuries remains unknown, as further testing and analysis are still ongoing, with samples sent to various laboratories for evaluation.
This incident has attracted significant attention due to the ongoing controversy surrounding offshore wind power projects and their potential impact on marine life, particularly whales along the U.S. East Coast. Despite some concerns raised by certain groups, including speculation about the possible connection between offshore wind preparation and whale deaths, scientific agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have stated that there is currently no evidence supporting such claims.
According to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, this unfortunate incident marks New Jersey’s first reported whale death of the year, following a total of 14 in 2023. Advocates for offshore wind projects, like Leading Light Wind, have emphasized the importance of accurate information and dispelling misinformation campaigns regarding these incidents. They point out that previous whale deaths have been attributed to other causes such as vessel strikes or entanglement with fishing gear, as indicated by scientific research.
Moreover, while examining the deceased whale, experts also discovered signs of past entanglement with fishing gear, although no such entanglement was present upon washing ashore. Scars from a previous entanglement were found on various parts of the whale’s body, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by marine wildlife due to human activities.
In response to the growing concerns surrounding these incidents, organizations like Protect Our Coast NJ have expressed skepticism regarding the official explanations provided for the whale deaths. Citing parallels with public distrust during the COVID-19 pandemic, these groups are calling for a more transparent and thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the recent whale mortality.
With ongoing efforts to minimize risks to marine wildlife and ensure the sustainable development of offshore wind projects, stakeholders like Leading Light Wind have reiterated their commitment to environmental protection and collaboration with maritime stakeholders. By investing in monitoring and mitigation initiatives, these organizations aim to promote the coexistence of offshore wind energy and a healthy marine environment for the benefit of all.