Tragic Discovery: Mother Whale and Calf Wash Ashore at Jacksonville Beach

Hanna Park, Jacksonville, Florida, USA - On Wednesday morning, June 19, 2025, a somber scene unfolded near Hanna Park in Jacksonville, Florida, as a mother whale and her calf were discovered washed ashore, both deceased. This tragic incident drew the attention of the Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC), which quickly confirmed that the animals were Gervais’ beaked whales, a species known for its elusive nature. Staff from Hanna Park, the FWC, and Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens responded to the situation, gathering essential details surrounding the discovery.

The mother whale measured approximately 14 feet in length, while her calf was about 7 feet long. Necropsies are underway to ascertain the cause of death, with results anticipated in the coming months. The FWC urges the public to alert them to any sightings of dead or injured marine life by calling their Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. The community’s involvement is crucial in monitoring the local marine ecosystem.

Understanding Gervais‘ Beaked Whales

Gervais’ beaked whales, also recognized as „Antillean“ or „Gulf Stream beaked whales,“ belong to the family Ziphiidae. As noted by NOAA Fisheries, these unique creatures typically inhabit deep tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate waters of the Atlantic Ocean. While most commonly sighted along the U.S. Atlantic coast, they can occasionally venture into colder temperate seas. The species is particularly notable for being the most frequently stranded Mesoplodon species in the southeastern Atlantic region of the United States, indicating the environmental challenges they face.

With adults reaching lengths of 15 to 17 feet and weighing as much as 2,640 pounds, these whales exhibit distinct characteristics such as a moderately long beak and small triangular dorsal fin. Their coloration, ranging from dark gray or bluish-black on the dorsal side to a lighter ventral side, helps them blend into their surroundings, underscoring their cryptic behavior. This behavior, combined with their preference for deep water, makes them difficult to study, leading to categorization as “data deficient” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. This designation reflects insufficient data to accurately assess their population status.

Threats and Conservation Efforts

Despite being protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Gervais’ beaked whales face several threats. These include entanglement in fishing gear and disturbances from human-made noise, which can significantly disrupt their natural behaviors and habitats. Furthermore, hunting in the Caribbean Sea poses a risk, although such activities are less common than other threats.

Unfortunately, the Gervais’ beaked whale’s population is not well understood, making conservation efforts challenging. NOAA Fisheries estimates population sizes but lacks sufficient data to identify trends over time. It’s clear, however, that the whale’s life expectancy is notably long, with an estimated lifespan of at least 27 years—possibly even extending to 48 years. Females typically give birth to a single calf around 7 feet long, weighing about 176 pounds, further emphasizing the importance of a stable environment conducive to their reproductive success.

As the investigation into the deaths of this mother and her calf progresses, the local community and authorities emphasize the critical need for continued awareness and protection of marine wildlife. The tragic event serves as a reminder of the intricate balance in our ecosystems and the necessity for vigilant conservation efforts. To report any wildlife issues, remember to keep the Wildlife Alert Hotline handy and engage in protecting Florida’s rich natural heritage.