The huge 50ft-long body of a rare whale was brought ashore after it floated into a fishing net.
The animal, believed to be a fin whale – categorised as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List – is rarely seen in the region.
The enormous carcass, already in an advanced state of decay, is believed to have drifted into the fishing zone after dying.
READ MORE: Bloodthirsty seals are killing and EATING dolphins off British coast and experts have no idea why
It was found in the Chongde fishing area off the coast of Xiulin in north-eastern Taiwan at around 8.20am yesterday (4 Mar).
The fishing crew towed the body back to shore after it drifted into one of their haulage nets.
A crew member said it was “the first time I had ever encountered such a situation”.
The 50ft-long whale. (Picture: Jam Press)
During the operation, the whale’s swollen belly deflated on the shore, causing blood and gas to gush out.
The area was cordoned off to ensure public safety.
The crew then notified the Ocean Conservation Administration and the Ministry of Agriculture of Taiwan about the huge corpse on the beach.
Upon arrival, experts identified it as a type of baleen whale, probably a fin whale, measuring 50.5ft (15.4m) in length.
The 50ft-long whale. (Picture: Jam Press)
Due to its advanced state of decay, they were unable to determine its exact species or age.
Experts took samples to analyse to establish the animal’s characteristics and the exact cause of death.
They also intend to preserve the carcass for academic research, as reported by What’s The Jam.
Although baleen whale species are known to migrate through the region, it is highly uncommon to see them close to Taiwan’s coast.
READ MORE: Youngest sperm whale ever seen in England and Wales found dead on beauty spot beach
The 50ft-long whale. (Picture: Jam Press)
The 50ft-long whale. (Picture: Jam Press)
The 50ft-long whale. (Picture: Jam Press)
The 50ft-long whale. (Picture: Jam Press)
