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Stranded Humpback Whale Dies After Euthanasia Delays

10/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A young humpback whale, identified as NYCO476, stranded off Long Beach Island, New Jersey, on October 17, 2025.
The whale measured 29 feet and had severe propeller wounds, leading to its poor condition.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) and the Coast Guard faced delays in euthanizing the whale due to heavy beach erosion and rising tides.
Despite administering sedatives overnight, the whale died before rescue efforts could resume on October 18.
The MMSC expressed deep sadness, noting the whale's potential contribution to its species was cut short.

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Story summary

A young humpback whale, identified as NYCO476, stranded off Long Beach Island, New Jersey, on October 17, 2025.
The whale measured 29 feet and had severe propeller wounds, leading to its poor condition.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) and the Coast Guard faced delays in euthanizing the whale due to heavy beach erosion and rising tides.
Despite administering sedatives overnight, the whale died before rescue efforts could resume on October 18.
The MMSC expressed deep sadness, noting the whale's potential contribution to its species was cut short.