At least 45 whales were confirmed entangled in fishing lines on Australia's east coast in 2024, but Dr. Olaf Meynecke believes the actual number is about 100.
Experts are urging better management of fishing gear to prevent marine suffering, emphasizing that preventing whale entanglements has been largely ignored in Australia.
Dr. Meynecke described the plight of a juvenile humpback whale that was spotted dragging rope and floats, which ultimately led to its death after two months.
The issue highlights an ethical concern, as the constant drag from fishing gear causes whales to suffer exhaustion over weeks or months, leading to a painful death.
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