An endangered fin whale that washed up near a coastal trail in Alaska’s largest city has attracted curious onlookers while biologists seek answers as to what caused the animal’s death.

A massive fin whale washed ashore in Anchorage, Alaska over the weekend, prompting crowds of onlookers and biologists to study the carcass of the 47ft female. Staff from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are taking samples to determine a possible cause of death.