Initial findings following a necropsy of an orca found dead last week on a Florida beach show that its death was likely due to “various illnesses,” SeaWorld said in a statement.
The female orca whale was found dead off Palm Coast on January 11 after washing up on shore. The rare sighting of the whale, which was nearly 22 feet long and weighed 9,000 pounds, drew large crowds to the area.
“Her passing is tragic, but it remains vitally important because of what the necropsy can reveal about her species and what led her to become stranded and die,” SeaWorld said after assisting in her rescue and transport. “What we learn will be another important piece of the puzzle in understanding this incredible species and helping protect wild populations, including the endangered southern resident killer whales of the Pacific Northwest.”
There are no signs that she was pregnant, no signs of human interaction, and no signs of trauma. There were signs of various illnesses, according to the update. It will take several weeks or months before your necropsy report is finalized, as the samples taken will be sent to labs across the country for testing.
21-FOOT ORCA WHALE DEAD IN FLORIDA AFTER BEING STRANDED
Rescuers work to remove a dead orca from a Florida beach for a necropsy to determine the cause of death.
(Flagler County Sheriff’s Office)
SeaWorld determined that the whale found on a Florida beach on January 11, 2023 was nearly 22 feet long and weighed 9,000 pounds.
(Flagler County Sheriff’s Office)
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This is the first time since 1956 that a killer whale has washed up on the Florida coast, SeaWorld said.
