Portstewart: a whale has been washed up on the Strand beach
Walkers have been warned to avoid the area
Last updated 26th May 2025
A dead minke whale has washed up on one of the North Coast's best-known beaches.
The 20-foot long mammal was found on the shore of the Strand in Portstewart.
The National Trust which owns the beach is warning passers-by to avoid going near the whale which it said could be dangerous because of potential diseases which can be transmitted to humans and dots.
In a statement, the Trust said: "On the evening of Sunday 25 May 2025, we became aware of a dead minke whale beached at Portstewart Strand.
"This has been reported to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (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."