HOLGATE, NJ – A juvenile humpback whale washed up on the beach in Holgate this week, marking the latest in a series of whale strandings along the New Jersey coastline.
The discovery was made in early October, when residents reported the animal to local authorities. Officials have confirmed the whale was deceased when found, though the cause of death has not yet been determined.
This incident follows several other whale strandings reported in the region over the past two years.
Key Points
- Juvenile humpback whale found dead on Holgate beach in early October
- Cause of death under investigation
- Recent strandings include a decomposed humpback in June 2025 and another whale found with blunt force trauma in April 2024
Ongoing investigations into whale deaths
Marine biologists and local officials are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the Holgate stranding. While it remains unclear what caused the animal’s death, experts note that humpback whale strandings along the mid-Atlantic coast have been increasing in recent years.
In June 2025, a decomposed humpback washed up elsewhere along the New Jersey shoreline, and in April 2024, another whale was found with blunt force trauma, injuries consistent with a possible vessel strike.
Continued concern along the coast
The frequency of recent strandings has raised concern among researchers and environmental groups monitoring marine life in the region. Federal and state agencies continue to collect data to determine whether environmental conditions, human activity, or natural factors may be contributing to the trend.
Local officials have not yet announced plans for a necropsy or further examination of the whale discovered in Holgate.