A young humpback whale that washed ashore in Neskowin early this week likely died from starvation, according to marine biologist Carrie Newell, who shared details in Facebook posts.

Newell, who owns Whale Research Eco Excursions in Depoe Bay, said the whale was about 28 to 29 feet long with an 8½-foot tail fluke — smaller than the 12-foot span typical of adults. She estimated the whale was roughly two years old and likely came ashore sometime Sunday or early Monday.

Photos taken Monday by Gregory Miller, a volunteer with Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Stranding Network, show the whale lying partly on its side near the surf line. Newell said the whale’s emaciated condition suggested it hadn’t been able to find enough food.

A young humpback whale lay on the beach at Neskowin, Ore

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