A BEACHED humpback whale died at Finger Point near Port MacDonnell on Monday night following an unsuccessful rescue attempt.
The nine metre mammal was stranded between rocky reef and the shoreline on Monday morning.
Despite a two-hour rescue attempt conducted by DEWNR and PIRSA staff, rescue teams were unable to help the whale free itself and the animal was swept closer to shore by mid-afternoon.
The whale sustained severe injuries from the rocky reef.
The South Australian Museum will take samples from the whale to contribute to the scientific understanding of the magnificent creatures.
People are urged to keep away as the body may be carrying infectious diseases.
It is strongly recommended the public do not enter the water around Finger Point until they are advised it is safe as whale oil and blood will likely attract sharks.
