The timeless fascination with whales captures our hearts and imaginations, drawing us in without fail.

On November 16th, a 47-foot fin whale washed up on the Anchorage coastal flats near Fish Creek, captivating the community. People flocked to the site, turning the area into a popular destination complete with selfies and family holiday card photos taken with the whale. Questions arose about how to appropriately honor the deceased whale, sparking debates about reverence and wildlife interaction. The atmosphere around the whale was almost festival-like, with schoolchildren going on field trips, babies being held up for photos, and crowds gathering to marvel at the massive creature.

Scientists conducted necropsy samples to determine more about the whale’s cause of death, but results won’t be available until January due to frozen tissue samples. Concerns were raised about the treatment of the whale, with some people taking parts of the carcass illegally. The whale’s stay may extend until spring, as it would take a high tide to move the carcass back into the channel.

The whale became a symbol of Anchorage’s connection to the ocean, reminding residents that they live on the doorstep of the wild with mountains and the ocean surrounding them. Each visit to the whale offered a different experience, with people from all walks of life making the trek out to pay their respects to the majestic creature. The whale, standing as a silent emissary from the depths of the sea, provided a profound perspective shift for many, changing the way they saw their city.

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Photo credit www.adn.com