Urgent Action Needed to Prevent Whale Entanglements in Australia

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In a concerning report, scientists have revealed that at least 45 whales became entangled in fishing ropes and lines along Australia's east coast in 2024, a figure they believe represents only a small portion of the true numbers. Dr. Olaf Meynecke, a marine scientist at Griffith University, estimates that the actual number of entanglements could be closer to 100.

Despite the healthy population of approximately 40,000 humpback whales migrating annually along the coast, experts emphasize that each entanglement leads to considerable suffering. Last year, only 15 whales were successfully disentangled, and many cases go unreported. For instance, a juvenile humpback was spotted in poor condition dragging fishing gear for several weeks before it ultimately washed ashore dead.

Experts are calling for improved management of fishing gear to mitigate entanglements, as current practices often lead to life-threatening situations for marine animals. Efforts to coordinate between various jurisdictions and the fishing industry could play a crucial role in addressing this issue.

The Sea World Foundation has been involved in numerous rescues, but they caution the public against attempting to cut fishing gear from entangled whales, as this can complicate rescue operations. Greater awareness and collaborative efforts are essential to ensure the safety of these majestic creatures during their migration.

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