Tooth-Marked Gray Whale Found on Oregon Beach, Signs Point to Killer Whale Attack

by | May 9, 2024 | News

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This week, the carcass of a gray whale calf, bearing tooth marks across its body, was discovered washed up on an Oregon beach.

Jim Rice, Program Manager of the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network, shared with USA TODAY that he was alerted on Tuesday about the 20-foot-long gray whale calf that had come ashore at Tish-A-Tang Beach in Bandon, Oregon.

Bandon, situated in southern Oregon along the Pacific coast, is approximately 140 miles southwest of Eugene.

The calf displayed extensive tooth marks and "significant trauma to the lower jaw and underside of the body," Rice stated, indicating that the whale had recently succumbed to "killer whale predation." Gray whales are massive creatures, reaching lengths of up to 49 feet and tipping the scales at around 90,000 pounds.

They have one of the longest migration routes among mammals, often covering a round trip of 10,000 to 14,000 miles. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) notes that they earned the nickname "devil fish" for their fierce reactions to being harpooned by hunters. Although they were once hunted to the brink of extinction, conservation efforts and whaling bans have helped gray whales achieve protected status.

Their primary diet consists of amphipod crustaceans, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Their chief predators include humans and killer whales. Though they were once widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, gray whales now primarily inhabit the North Pacific Ocean, according to NOAA.


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Written By Tyler James

Tyler James, founder of That Oregon Life, is a true Oregon native whose love for his state runs deep. Since the inception of the blog in 2013, his unbridled passion for outdoor adventures and the natural beauty of Oregon has been the cornerstone of his work. As a father to two beautiful children, Tyler is always in pursuit of new experiences to enrich his family’s life. He curates content that not only reflects his adventures but also encourages others to set out and create precious memories in the majestic landscapes of Oregon. Tyler's vision and guidance are integral to his role as publisher and editor, shaping the blog into a source of inspiration for exploring the wonders of Oregon.

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