Investigation after dead whale found on ship's bow

An endangered fin whale was found deceased on the bow of a container ship at Gloucester Marine Terminal in New Jersey; NOAA's enforcement office has opened an investigation.

Authorities reported an endangered whale was found deceased on the bow of a container ship at Gloucester Marine Terminal in New Jersey. The US Coast Guard made the initial report and the Marine Mammal Stranding Center confirmed the discovery. The centre said it is arranging to tow the whale for a necropsy to try to determine the cause of death. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced its enforcement office has opened an investigation. Known details: - The whale was found on the bow of a container ship at Gloucester Marine Terminal, as reported by the US Coast Guard and confirmed by the Marine Mammal Stranding Center. - The animal is believed to be an endangered fin whale, estimated by the centre at about 25 to 30 feet long. - The Marine Mammal Stranding Center said it will tow the whale for a necropsy to ascertain cause of death. - NOAA's enforcement office has opened an investigation and has asked that anyone with information contact its hotline. Summary: The discovery underscores ongoing threats to large whales, which include ship strikes and entanglement as reported risks for fin whales. Authorities are proceeding with a necropsy and an official investigation; further details are undetermined at this time.