A pilot first spotted the whale last week. What caused the whale’s death isn’t yet known.
The Marine Mammal Center and California Academy of Sciences are reporting cause of death for one.
It's not yet clear what led to the humpback’s death or where it died, and biologists are warning people to stay away from the carcass.
It’s rare to see humpbacks in Turnagain Arm, known for its swift tides and shallow waters.