Trapped in Fishing Nets, Humpback and Calf Rescued in Vallarta Efrén Urrutia - Tribuna de la Bahia
go to original January 29, 2024

In an important rescue last week, a team of experts announced the 90th rescue of a humpback whale that was trapped in fishing nets while swimming with her calf in the waters of Puerto Vallarta, announced the environmental association Ecología y Conservación de Ballenas A.C./ECOBAC.

The female, which presented a scar from a previous collision with a boat, was entangled with a long line, nylon lines with hooks, and part of a ghost net. The situation was critical, as the longline entangled her huge pectoral fins under her belly, affecting her mobility and endangering both the mother and her almost newborn calf.

He explained that the rescue team, made up of marine life specialists, divers and veterinarians, embarked on a mission that took them a day of searching and two days of maneuvers to free the majestic whale. Difficulties increased due to poor visibility in the water, forcing the rescuers to work almost blind.

The highlight of the rescue was witnessing the giant creature extend its huge pectoral fins and begin to swim at a faster speed with its calf at its side.

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Related: A Surprise Sighting of Humpback Whales in Banderas Bay (Vallarta Daily News)

Related: Whales in Puerto Vallarta: This Is How Tourists Experience This Spectacle (Tribuna de la Bahia)

  Learn about ECOBAC - Ecology and Conservation of Whales

  Learn about Deep Blue Conservancy

  Learn about La Orca de Sayulita

  Learn about Grupo Ecologico de Puerto Vallarta

  Learn about Marine Mammal Research Group

  Learn about Mares Mexicanos

  Learn about COBI - Rebels of the Sea

  Learn about Oceanus A.C.

  Learn about Oceana Mexico