A Whale of a Job

Whales have become stranded on virtually every beach on Earth, some of which are saved thanks to the tireless efforts of conservationists, local officials, and volunteers, but sadly, not all are floated back to freedom in the depths at which they thrive. What becomes of the perished animals is often a mix of controversy, utter failure, and partial success. A case in Oregon made national news in 1970, when an 8-ton sperm whale washed ashore and was subsequently blown up, causing damage to a much further extent than if the whale had just been left to nature. If at all possible, research institutions may collect the carcass for study, but there is no one sure way to dispose of a rotting whale carcass. Check out this footage of a fin whale that beached on the shores of Scotland, and the tedious measures undertaken to properly rid the town of a potential threat to public health and safety. Warning: some of the footage is graphic, and may not be suitable for all viewers.