A dead Fin whale, measuring approximately 35 to 40 feet in length, was discovered inside the surf line near Torrance Beach on Saturday. Los Angeles County Lifeguards, who found the whale around 6 p.m., reported the incident on X. Experts from the Marine Mammal Care Center and National Marine Fisheries Service determined that the whale had already passed away. The cause of the whale’s stranding and death remains unclear.
Tammy Da Costa Gomez, a veterinarian and volunteer, stated that while entanglement or ship strikes are common causes for whale deaths, no signs of such injuries were immediately apparent. Gomez emphasized that the whale was a juvenile, and Fin whales typically reach twice its size.
Torrance officials announced on Sunday that the whale would remain on the beach while they developed a plan for its removal. A necropsy is scheduled to be performed, and residents were advised to avoid the area due to the potential foul odor and the ongoing response efforts.
The massive size and location of the whale have complicated the removal process, requiring a coordinated effort from responders. The public is urged to give the whale and the responders ample space to work.
