Key Takeaways:
- A humpback whale died after becoming entangled in a cray pot rope off the Northland coast in September.
- This is the first recorded death of a humpback whale due to entanglement with a rock lobster pot buoy rope in New Zealand.
- 75 seabirds, including 15 albatross, were caught during the September quarter, and two Hector’s dolphins and six endangered sea lions were also caught.
- The New Zealand sea lion is the world’s rarest species of sea lion, with an estimated population of just 10,000.
- Education and responsible gear management are key to reducing the risk of pot fishing gear to whales and other marine species.
Introduction to the Incident
A humpback whale has tragically died after becoming caught in a cray pot rope off the Northland coast. The incident, which occurred in September, was revealed in a report by Fisheries New Zealand detailing accidental catches of seabirds and protected marine species between 1 July and 30 September. While the exact location and date of the incident were not disclosed, it is believed to have taken place off Northland’s east coast. This incident is a stark reminder of the risks that marine species face due to human activities, and the need for responsible and sustainable fishing practices.
The Risks of Entanglement
The death of the humpback whale is a rare but unfortunate event, and it highlights the risks that these animals face due to entanglement with fishing gear. While whale deaths due to crayfish pots are rare, entanglements in buoy ropes and other fishing gear are not. In fact, there have been several incidents of humpback whales becoming entangled in cray pot ropes in recent years. For example, in November, a humpback whale was freed by DOC staff after being tangled in a cray pot rope for 18 hours at Kaikoura. Similarly, in February 2023, a humpback whale was spotted with a crayfish pot rope tangled around its tail, sparking a major search by air and sea.
Other Incidents of Entanglement
The Fisheries New Zealand report also revealed that 75 seabirds were caught during the September quarter, including 15 albatross, which is up from nine in the same period last year. Two Hector’s dolphins were also caught, one off the west coast of the South Island and the other off Banks Peninsula. Furthermore, six endangered sea lions were caught in the same period, three of which were caught by scampi fishers near the sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands. One sea lion was caught in a set net at Stewart Island. The New Zealand sea lion is the world’s rarest species of sea lion, with an estimated population of just 10,000, making these incidents particularly concerning.
Conservation Efforts
Despite these incidents, there is no evidence to suggest that whale populations are being significantly affected by entanglements with rock lobster pot buoy ropes. In fact, the number of humpback whales migrating through New Zealand waters appears to be increasing. To reduce the risk of pot fishing gear to whales and other marine species, the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the New Zealand Rock Lobster Industry Council promote various methods, including education around responsible gear management, avoiding areas where whales are present, knowing what to do if a whale is entangled, and reporting any sightings promptly and accurately. It is essential that fishers and the general public are aware of these risks and take steps to mitigate them.
Advice for the Public
If someone encounters an entangled whale, it is essential that they do not approach or try to free the animal. Instead, they should note the whale’s location, direction of travel, and any identifying features, and contact DOC as soon as possible on the 24-hour hotline 0800 DOC HOT. This will allow trained professionals to respond quickly and effectively to the situation, minimizing the risk of further harm to the animal. By working together, we can reduce the risk of entanglement and protect these incredible creatures.
Conclusion
The death of the humpback whale off the Northland coast is a tragic reminder of the risks that marine species face due to human activities. However, by promoting education and responsible gear management, we can reduce the risk of pot fishing gear to whales and other marine species. It is essential that we take steps to protect these incredible creatures and their habitats, and work towards a more sustainable and responsible fishing industry. By doing so, we can help to ensure the long-term survival of these amazing animals and the ecosystems they inhabit.
