Tragic Incident in Barnegat Bay: Whale Dies After Collision with Boat

Tragic Incident in Barnegat Bay: Whale Dies After Collision with Boat

A disturbing incident has been reported in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey, where a whale has sadly succumbed to its injuries following a collision with a boat. The dramatic event was captured on camera, showing the whale striking the vessel, which nearly capsized, resulting in one passenger being thrown overboard.

According to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the whale was found in extremely shallow waters, raising questions about how the vessel managed to reach the area. Director Shelia Dean expressed her concerns, stating, "I'm not sure how they managed to get to where the whale was, given how shallow it was." Dean also suggested that the whale may have suffered injuries from the boat collision, which likely contributed to its demise.

In the aftermath of this incident, Dean emphasized the importance of exercising caution when encountering whales in the water. "If a whale approaches your vessel, you should turn off your engines and remain still in the water until it swims away. Never attempt to approach a whale," she advised.

The deceased whale has been identified as a 20-foot-long Minke whale. Fortunately, local reports indicate that the individual who was thrown overboard is expected to make a full recovery. This harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible boating practices and the need to respect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.

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