25-Foot Whale Washes Ashore in Huntington Beach; Investigation Underway

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — A 25-foot female gray whale was discovered dead on Friday, April 11, near the Huntington Beach pier. The beach was cordoned off as marine safety officials responded to the scene on Saturday.

Glenn Gray, CEO of the Laguna Beach-based marine program, confirmed that a necropsy is currently underway to determine the cause of death, which remains unknown. The whale washed ashore near Tower 7, prompting public safety measures to ensure the area remains secured, according to Jennifer Carey, spokesperson for the city.

In collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC), Huntington Beach’s Public Works Department has received authorization to proceed with burying the whale. This operation is scheduled for Sunday morning.

This incident adds to recent whale sightings along the Southern California coast, where ongoing seasonal migrations have drawn attention. Just last weekend, a different whale was spotted in Long Beach’s Rainbow Harbor, where it swam for several days before being relocated.

The recent stranding has raised concerns among marine biologists regarding the health of local whale populations. Officials urge the public to report any stranded marine animals and to maintain a safe distance for observation.