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Chile's Whales Face Deadly Ship Collisions
20 Feb
Summary
- Fin whale feeding season sees increased ship collision risks.
- Chilean waters are a global hotspot for maritime whale accidents.
- Fishing nets also pose a severe entanglement threat to whales.
The feeding season for fin whales, the second-largest whale species, along Chile's northern coast has brought a surge in their activity. This increased presence, typically from October to January in waters like Mejillones and Antofagasta bays, tragically elevates the risk of fatal ship collisions and entanglements in fishing nets. Marine experts are raising alarms about this growing threat.
Chile has become a significant location for these maritime incidents involving whales. Conservationists point out that the region is a global hotspot for such accidents, stressing the urgent need for enhanced habitat protections. Reports indicate that Chile leads globally in recorded whale strandings and collisions, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Beyond direct ship strikes, fishing operations contribute significantly to the danger. Adrift fishing nets from large-scale operations frequently trap these magnificent creatures. The situation was recently underscored by the discovery of a whale carcass washed ashore in Algarrobo, a stark visual reminder of the perils faced by these vital ocean inhabitants.
