A sperm whale had died after it had become stranded on a beach in Venice, Florida, on March 11.

The efforts to free the massive creature began on Sunday morning as police and wildlife officials worked tirelessly to help the 44-foot-long whale. Originally estimated to be 70 feet in length, biologists struggled to assist the whale due to challenging water conditions.

The situation took a turn for the worse on Sunday evening when the whale began to show signs of laboured breathing. Despite the best efforts of the biologists, the whale succumbed to its injuries and passed away early Monday morning.

Biologists will now conduct tests to determine the cause of death, a process that will likely take several weeks to complete.

This footage was filmed and produced 11 March 2024.

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a sperm whale that captured the hearts of many along Florida's Gulf Coast has passed away. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced the sad news on Monday after the male whale was found beached on a sandbar in Venice.

The efforts to free the massive creature began on Sunday morning as police and wildlife officials worked tirelessly to help the 44-foot-long whale. Originally estimated to be 70 feet in length, biologists struggled to assist the whale due to challenging water conditions.

The situation took a turn for the worse on Sunday evening when the whale began to show signs of labored breathing. Despite the best efforts of the biologists, the whale succumbed to its injuries and passed away early Monday morning.

Biologists will now conduct tests to determine the cause of death, a process that will likely take several weeks to complete. The loss of this majestic creature has left the community in mourning, as the whale had become a symbol of hope and resilience along the Gulf Coast.