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FAQs

Frequently Asked
Questions

Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the Kilbrittain Whale — and maybe a few things you didn’t know you wanted to.

About the Whale

The story behind the skeleton and the incredible animal that started it all.
What kind of whale is it?
A fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) — the second-largest animal on Earth. The Kilbrittain whale measured just over 19 metres (65 feet) in length.
It came ashore on January 15th, 2009, at Burren Beach, near Kilbrittain, West Cork.
The exact reason isn’t known. Whales may strand due to illness, disorientation, sonar interference, or natural causes.
Sadly, no. Despite efforts to understand what happened, the whale died shortly after washing ashore.
Yes — the skeleton on display is from the original whale that beached in 2009.

The Skeleton & Display

How the whale was preserved, and where you can see it today.
Where is the skeleton now?
It’s on display in Kilbrittain, West Cork, in a purpose-built open shelter. It’s free to visit all year round.
Yes — the skeleton is viewable daily during daylight hours. No booking is needed for individuals or small groups.
After a filmed autopsy by Professor Joy Reidenberg, the whale’s remains were processed, cleaned, and preserved over 18 months with the help of local volunteers and workers.
The current shelter is a long-term but still temporary solution. We hope to create a more permanent and weather-protected exhibition space in future.

Education & School Visits

Resources and info for teachers, students, and curious young minds.
Do you offer school visits?
Yes! Schools are welcome to visit. Small groups can come anytime, while larger classes can use the contact form to arrange learning materials or a guided session.
We’re currently working on printable learning packs for classroom use and field trips. Stay tuned!
Absolutely. Many children are amazed by the size and shape of the bones — and it’s a great introduction to marine life and science.

How to Support

Your small donation helps a very big whale.
How can I donate?
You can donate €2.50 or more through our secure Donation page. Every euro helps with maintenance, education, and future development.
Yes, you can adjust the amount on checkout page.
Funds go toward:
  • Maintaining the skeleton and shelter
  • Creating educational content
  • Hosting community events and talks
  • Improving signage and visitor materials
Yes! You can:
  • Volunteer
  • Share your photos or stories
  • Organise a fundraiser
  • Help with social media or content

Visiting & Sharing

Planning a visit? Here’s what you need to know.
Where is Kilbrittain?
Kilbrittain is in West Cork, about 15 minutes from Bandon, and close to the coast. The whale display is signposted locally.
 
Yes — free parking is available nearby.
Absolutely! We encourage visitors to take photos and share them using #KilbrittainWhale.
Yes — Courtmacsherry Bay, Old Head of Kinsale, and the Seven Heads Peninsula are excellent for whale and dolphin watching.
We’d love that! Tag your wild sightings with #SpottedInWestCork or send us a message through the Contact page.

More Questions?

Still wondering about something?
 We’d be happy to help — just head to our Contact page and send us a message.

Contact page

The Kilbrittain Whale is more than a skeleton. It’s a memory, a symbol, and a reminder of how one animal brought a whole community together.

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