Vancouver Aquarium Rescues False Killer Whale

(Photo Credit: Vancouver Aquarium)

Props and prayers go out to the team at the Vancouver Aquarium as they deal with trying to nurse a young False Killer Whale back to health. At last report, the animal was in critical condition.

According to a report by The Canadian Press, a False Killer Whale (a member of the Dolphin family) was found beached on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Within an hour, a rescue team was dispatched from the Vancouver Aquarium to assess the situation. The animal was a calf, between 4 and 6 weeks of age, and suffered from lacerations and other severe problems associated with the crushing weight of being completely out of the water.

The calf was brought back to the rescue team’s facility for care, where a group of two dozen caring aquarium veterinarians and staff are treating it around the clock. Its eventual release would be determined by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans should the calf recover. A recent update on their Facebook page gave people a glimmer of hope:

“On the slightly positive side he is vocalizing a little more, moving a little more, opening his eyes, and showing a little more energy. He has a long road ahead to recovery.”

Not much is known about this type of animal, prompting marine biologists and researchers from around the world to take interest in this rescue. 

AO would like to give a hearty round of applause to the amazing folks at the Vancouver Aquarium for their efforts. Their commitment to the species should be applauded as they inspire generations to take personal interest in the future of marine mammals.