Rescue Mission: 12-Meter Humpback Whale Liberated from Illegal Drift Net near Balearic Island in a Thrilling Underwater Operation

In a thrilling underwater operation near the Balearic island of Mallorca, Spanish divers successfully rescued a 12-meter-long humpback whale that had become entangled in an illegal drift net. This heart-pounding rescue mission unfolded as a remarkable experience for the divers involved.

Gigi Torras, one of the divers who participated in the rescue, expressed her gratitude, stating that this rescue was the “best birthday present ever” for her. She also felt a sense of appreciation from the magnificent creature, perceiving a small gesture of gratitude directed towards her.

Torras described the experience as “out of this world” and “incredible” while speaking to Reuters. The encounter left a profound impact on the divers, highlighting the awe-inspiring connection between humans and marine life.

This sighting marked only the third recorded instance of a humpback whale in the waters around the Balearic Islands, making it a rare and significant event for the region.

The Palma de Mallorca Aquarium, a marine rescue center, received an alert after a ship spotted the distressed whale approximately three miles (4.83 km) off the coast of Mallorca. Upon their arrival, the rescue team discovered the humpback whale completely entangled in a crimson net, rendering it unable to open its mouth and jeopardizing its survival.

Initial attempts to cut the net from a boat proved unsuccessful, leading to a courageous decision. Divers from the Albatros and Skualo diving centers joined the operation, diving into the water for a perilous 45-minute endeavor to free the magnificent creature using their knives.

Torras, the owner of the Albatros diving center, described the initial moments of the rescue, stating, “In the first ten seconds, she was a bit nervous, with bubbles everywhere. But then, I don’t know, call me crazy, but I think she knew we were there to help her, and she just relaxed. We started working from the front of her mouth backward.”

The divers diligently cut away the net, freeing the humpback whale from its entanglement. Torras added, “We kept cutting and cutting, and she even gave a little wiggle to free herself.” The immense relief of the whale was evident as it lingered with the four divers, regaining its strength before swimming away, seemingly expressing its gratitude for the rescue.

The use of drift nets was banned by the United Nations three decades ago due to the significant harm they cause to marine animals. These nets unintentionally trap and harm not only the intended catch but also a multitude of other marine species. The successful rescue of this humpback whale serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting marine life and the necessity to combat illegal fishing practices.

The heart-stopping underwater operation to liberate the 12-meter humpback whale from an illegal drift net off the Balearic Island showcased the courage, dedication, and deep connection between humans and marine creatures. It is a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard our oceans and preserve the incredible biodiversity they hold.

Whale is the common name for many aquatic animals in the order Whale (Cetacea). The term whale sometimes refers to all species of Whale, but excludes dolphins and porpoises, which belong to the suborder Odontoceti (toothed whales). This suborder also includes sperm whales, orcas, pilot whales, and white whales. Other whale suborders include Mysticeti. This suborder also includes blue whales, humpback whales, bowhead whales, and spear whales. Many species of fish in the order of whales or whales are loved and worshiped by many seafarers, becoming the custom of worshiping his fish (called Mermaid or Duc Ngu), but there are also some legendary individuals. considered evil. Whaling is also a threat to the extinction of whale species.