Stranded Whale Dies on Connecticut Shore

It’s not clear how a young humpback whale ended up off the James Street Beach near Stonington on Monday, or when it died.

Many locals came to the beach hoping the whale was still alive, but after realizing the whale was dead some turned to walk away saying they didn't want to see it while others used it as a learning opportunity.

 took one of their summer marine science classes to see the whale. On their Facebook page they posted photographs and facts about the whale.

"The whale is lying on its back, and the large matter to the right is its tongue, NESS wrote. "Gasses inside the whale are keeping it afloat."

The ’s Animal Rescue Team was at the beach this morning evaluating the situation and is expected to perform a necropsy on the whale. 

Humpback whales, according to National Geographic, generally grow to be about 48 to 62.5 feet in length. The whale off or Lord's Point appeared to be much smaller causing some people to call it baby. National Geographic, however, states that humpback whales grow until they reach the age of ten. They are protected creatures.

If you encounter a marine mammal or sea turtle in Connecticut, Rhode Island or Fishers Island, New York the Mystic Aquarium requests you call their 24-hour hotline at 860-572-5955.