Dead humpback whale entangled in fishing rope washes ashore in Newfoundland

A humpback whale carcass entangled in rope washed ashore in Spaniard's Bay, a community of about 2,600 people roughly 40 kilometres west of St. John's, Newfoundland. The animal, estimated at approximately 12 metres long and not yet a full adult, had rope wrapped around both its mouth and tail. According to the Whale Rescue and Strandings group, the whale appears to have died at depth before surfacing, and may have become entangled during poor weather. The carcass is located steps from residences, a school, and the town's recreation centre, raising concerns about odour and biological hazard as temperatures rise. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) officials visited the site to assess the situation, though determining the type of fishing gear involved typically requires removal of the rope first. The town is weighing several disposal options — including towing and sinking the carcass, relocating it to an uninhabited cove, or cutting it up and transporting it to a landfill — the last of which could cost tens of thousands of dollars. Mayor Tammy Oliver said the removal responsibility ultimately falls on the town, though she is seeking guidance from provincial and federal authorities.