Fisheries and Oceans Canada was able to free a humpback whale that had gotten tangled in more than 100 metres of fishing gear.
The entanglement was spotted and reported Sunday, Sept. 21, by Nanaimo-based Vancouver Island Whale Watch.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans, in a statement, noted that fishery officers were able to attach a satellite tag to the trailing gear, and monitored the animal until the location and weather became safe for rescuers.
On Wednesday, Sept. 24, the DFO's marine mammal rescue unit and whale protection unit and the Department of National Defence – as the humpback was near the Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental and Test Ranges – co-operated on a "huge effort," the statement noted, removing nearly 140 metres of rope and gear over six hours. For video of the rescue operation, click here.
The DFO took the opportunity to remind anglers that lost gear must be reported, and the department has a reporting system for that purpose.
"Debris is a real problem for marine wildlife. The public can help prevent entanglements by cutting packing material, banding, rope and other looped material before disposing of it, and by not be disposing of these materials in the marine environment," the statement added.
Instances of whales being harassed, disturbed, entangled or struck by vessels can be reported to the DFO by phone at 1-800-465-4336 or e-mail at [email protected].
