Marine wildlife experts are currently working to help a young minke whale that has been swimming in Long Beach Harbor for several days. The situation has drawn attention from both local authorities and curious onlookers.
On Thursday, officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that the whale had been spotted in the harbor, prompting a rescue effort. Michael Milstein, a spokesperson for NOAA, explained that such occurrences are not uncommon and that whales often find their way out of harbors on their own.
In an effort to assist the whale, marine experts removed barriers near the harbor entrance to create a wider opening. They also made sounds intended to guide the whale towards the exit. The whale initially swam out but then turned back, returning to the harbor. Milstein mentioned that the team decided to halt their efforts for the day, allowing the whale another chance to escape on its own, especially as it might be quieter at night.
There is no immediate danger to the whale, which can grow up to 26 feet long and weigh as much as 14,000 pounds. Minke whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
As the whale continues to swim in the harbor, helicopters from local news stations hovered above, capturing the scene as a crowd gathered to watch. While the situation remains fluid, experts remain hopeful that the whale will find its way back to open waters soon.