Tasman Bay: Whale reported entangled in fishing gear

The Department of Conservation and volunteer marine mammal protection organisation Project Jonah are trying to locate an endangered whale in western Tasman Bay.

“We have received reports of a whale entangled in fishing gear in the western Tasman Bay, in the top of the South Island,” Project Jonah said on Facebook.

“[The] Department of Conservation‘s disentanglement team are ready to respond to free the whale, once it is located.”

Project Jonah’s advice was not to approach the whale or attempt to free it.

“The whale is likely very stressed and could respond aggressively.”

The Department of Conservation (DoC) said it was working with Project Jonah to locate the entangled whale.

“We’re also asking the community to keep an eye out.”

Any sightings of the whale or any marine mammal in distress should be reported immediately by calling 0800 562 468 (0800 DOC HOT) or 0800 494 253 (0800 4 WHALE).