Some scientists suspect the mammal, believed to be a rare female sei whale, became stranded and died after an abnormally high tide carried it to a salt marsh. But others have different theories.

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National Marine Fisheries Service spokesman Brian Gorman said his agency was investigating a report that the whale had been hit by a private boat Friday.

However, senior scientist Ken Balcomb of the Center for Whale Research in Friday Harbor says he carefully looked over the 18-year-old female whale and saw no evidence of any new injury. He also says she’s been acting “mopey” for days – “actually much of the summer.” He thinks it’s possible she’s pregnant and soon to give birth.

Washington fisheries officials also were reportedly investigating the boat strike report. They did not immediately return calls for comment Friday evening.

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