The city of Corner Brook has decided to allow a dead fin whale to decompose naturally after it washed ashore in Wild Cove. While doing so, it expects it will continue to gain even more attention from the public.
The decision was made to leave the carcass where it is, following consultation with various provincial and federal government agencies.
The animal, the second largest species in the world next to the blue whale, became grounded at Wild Cove a couple of weeks ago after apparently chasing bait into the shallow water.
The whale as of October 8, 2026 (photo with permission by Krista AP)
The city says while a number of options have been explored, it was decided that they were impractical and carried a “high risk of environmental damage. ”
The city is asking residents to be cautious if approaching the carcass and those driving on the North Shore Highway are asked to be mindful of the speed limit and not to impede traffic while parked on the side of the road.
Drone operators are also being reminded that it is illegal to fly a drone or any aircraft below 1000 feet within half a mile of a marine mammal – alive or dead – unless you hold an official research or response permit.
