Rescuers Free Humpback Whales From Fishing Gear Off Australia, Canada

Two major humpback whale rescue operations recently took place on opposite coasts of North America and Australia. Off the coast of New South Wales, Australia, rescuers from the Sea World Foundation and Marine Rescue Brunswick Heads braved gale-force winds and rough seas to free a whale entangled in thick fishing rope, completing the operation in just over an hour. Meanwhile, on the coast of British Columbia, Canada, a multi-day rescue involving Fisheries and Oceans Canada and local volunteers freed a humpback whale named Tutu after removing over 130 meters of fishing gear over three days, despite the whale's persistent movement and energy. Both rescues highlight ongoing threats from fishing gear entanglements, which continue to endanger whales despite conservation efforts and population recoveries. These incidents underscore the dedication and coordination required by rescue teams to protect marine life during peak whale migration seasons. Experts emphasize that such entanglements contribute significantly to whale and dolphin mortality worldwide.