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.

The carcass was found Saturday night along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, near the mouth of Fish Creek and just south of Westchester Lagoon. Biologists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have been examining the animal — a young female, judging from its size and appearance.

NOAA biologists are trying to determine how the whale died, while onlookers have gathered to see the large carcass.

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.