A large minke whale washed ashore on a popular north coast beach is drawing crowds of stunned beachgoers.
The young adult, believed to be around 20 to 24 feet long and weighing around seven tonnes, was found lifeless on Portstewart Strand on Sunday evening, prompting an urgent response from authorities.
The National Trust, which manages the beach, confirmed it had reported the incident to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and is now working with marine mammal experts to assess the situation.
"On the evening of 25 May 2025, we became aware of a dead minke whale beached at Portstewart Strand," in a social media post National Trust said. "This has been reported to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and we will be working with a range of agencies and marine mammal experts to determine next steps.”
Dog walkers have also been advised to keep pets on leads, as decaying marine mammals can carry diseases that pose a serious risk to both humans and animals.
The post continued "Until this process is safely complete, we urge the public to continue to follow all signage and keep a safe distance. Please also continue to keep dogs on leads and under tight control.
“Decaying marine mammals pose a serious health risk. They can carry a range of diseases that are transmissible to humans and dogs.
“Thank you for your understanding and support.”
