WHS BC Library Remote Learning: Sad whale situation in the Mediterranean

Giant fin whale brought to Naples, Italy after dying at sea

The whale brought into harbor

A very large fin whale was found in the Mediterranean sea of the coast of Naples in Southern Italy, after Italian the coast guard were led to a large fin whale carcass by a younger whale that was in distress. Unfortunately it is possible that the young whale was the child of the older whale that passed away, because the younger whale appeared to have been in mourning. Fin whales are the second largest species of whale and is recognized by its large dorsal (located on the top of its body) fin. This species is found all over the world and is one of the biggest whales in the Mediterranean ocean as well as in other oceans and seas. Sadly, this whale was brought to shore after its body was discovered. Italian authorities are trying to discover what caused its death and say that its skeleton will likely be put in a museum. Hopefully the young fin whale is okay. The Italian Coast Guard is keeping and eye out for it and will attempt to provide assistance when they locate the juvenile whale.

Question: What do you think might have caused the death of the whale?

Italian Coast Guard Recovers Carcass of Huge Whale in Mediterranean Sea

Italian coastguard recover huge whale carcass