Majestic Whale Found Dead on Portstewart Strand

Visitors to Portstewart Strand are being asked to stay away from the carcass of a whale that was discovered over the weekend. There is sadness in the Co Derry seaside town following the discovery of the animal, which appears to have washed ashore rather than having been 'beached' alive on the sand at Portstewart.

The National Trust, which has responsibility for the beach at Portstewart, is advising the public to stay away from the animal's remains. In a notice published on the National Trust website, a spokesperson said: "A carcase of a dead whale was washed on the shores of Portstewart Strand, we ask all visitors to stay away from the marine mammal until we will be able to dispose of it."

John Bradley, who owns Shiela's Sweet Shop on the Promenade in Portstewart, told he came across the whale while he was out walking on Sunday evening. "It is very sad to see an animal as majestic as that," he said. "The size of it and everything, it's just sad."

Mr Bradley said that he would find it difficult to estimate the creature's size, but suggested it appears to be more than 20 feet long. A National Trust spokesperson, in a statement to, said: "On the evening of 25 May 2025, we became aware of a dead minke whale beached at Portstewart Strand. This has been reported to DAERA and we will be working with a range of agencies and marine mammal experts to determine next steps."

"Until this process is safely complete, we urge the public to continue to follow all signage and keep a safe distance. Please also continue to keep dogs on leads and under tight control. Decaying marine mammals pose a serious health risk. They can carry a range of diseases that are transmissible to humans and dogs. Thank you for your understanding and support."

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has been approached for comment. For all the latest news, visit the homepage and sign up to our daily newsletter.