Have you seen her? NOAA needs help finding entangled whale
By Kimber Collins
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MAUI, Hawaii (KITV) — NOAA is asking Hawaii’s on-water community to keep a close eye out for an entangled humpback whale spotted off Lahaina, Maui.
The roughly 40-foot female humpback was encountered by the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary monitoring team on Thursday, January 22. Officials say the whale appears to be in poor to moderate condition, showing signs of emaciation and heavy coverage of red-colored whale lice across much of her body.
Researchers believe the whale may still be entangled and are working to track her movements so trained responders can assess whether intervention is possible. NOAA says public reports are critical in helping teams locate the animal.
Anyone who spots the whale is asked to immediately call the statewide NOAA Marine Animal Emergency Hotline at 888-256-9840. Officials also ask the public to share photos or videos if possible, but to remain at least 100 yards away and not attempt to approach or assist the whale.
Humpback whales are protected under federal law, and approaching them too closely can be dangerous for both the animal and people on the water.
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