A young humpback whale entangled in fishing gear has been successfully freed in the Eastern Cape thanks to the combined efforts of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and the South African Whale Disentanglement Network (SAWDN).
Image: NSRI
The NSRI Emergency Operations Centre received reports on Sunday of the whale trapped in the ropes of a local fishing vessel, about 18 nautical miles south of Cape Recife, as previously reported by The Citizen.
Swift response
NSRI Gqeberha duty coxswain Stephen van den Berg said the whale, measuring between 8.5 and 9 metres, appeared tired and docile when rescuers arrived. “The fishing vessel skipper and crew were attempting to assist in freeing the whale from the fishing rope and requested assistance,” he explained.
Two NSRI rescue craft, Rescue 6 Alpha and Eddie Beaumont II, launched with SAWDN-trained volunteers on board, carrying specialised cutting gear and extra fuel. Telkom Maritime Radio Services supported the operation with marine VHF communications.
Successful disentanglement
On arrival, rescuers found multiple wraps of rope tightly wound around the whale’s tail. Working alongside the fishing crew, the disentanglement team managed to cut the animal free.
The operation was completed by 3pm. “After being freed, the young whale seemed to take a while to rest and gather strength before swimming off confidently. The fishing vessel skipper and crew are commended for their care and assistance,” said Van den Berg.
Protecting marine life
Established in 2006, the South African Whale Disentanglement Network coordinates rescues of entangled whales using specialised equipment. It is made up of trained volunteers from organisations including the NSRI, KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the Mammal Research Institute, SANParks and the SAPS.
