Heartwarming Rescue: One-Eyed Albino Humpback Whale Rescued from Illegal Drift Net near Balearic Islands

Oídos palpitantes bajo el agua rescatan a una ballena jorobada de 12 metros de largo atrapada en una deriva ilegal frente a las islas Baleares

Spanish divers have carried out a heartwarming underwater rescue of a 12-meter-long albino humpback whale that was ensnared in an illegal drift net off the coast of the Balearic island of Mallorca. This extraordinary rescue mission struck a chord with marine enthusiasts and showcased the resilience and compassion of humans toward these majestic creatures.

Oídos palpitantes bajo el agua rescatan a una ballena jorobada de 12 metros de largo atrapada en una deriva ilegal frente a las islas Baleares

The rescue operation was a testament to the dedication of the divers who worked tirelessly to free the trapped humpback whale. Gigi Torras, one of the divers, described the rescue as her “best ever birthday present.” She also noted that during the rescue, the massive whale seemed to show a small gesture of respect toward her.

Oídos palpitantes bajo el agua rescatan a una ballena jorobada de 12 metros de largo atrapada en una deriva ilegal frente a las islas Baleares

As the team worked to release the whale from the crimson netting, they encountered moments of suspense and relief. Gigi Torras shared her experience with Reuters, saying, “I was like outside of this world, I was incredible, simply incredible.”

Oídos palpitantes bajo el agua rescatan a una ballena jorobada de 12 metros de largo atrapada en una deriva ilegal frente a las islas Baleares

Upon reaching the trapped whale, the divers found it completely ensnared in the netting, with its mouth obstructed as well. After initial attempts to cut the net from a boat proved unsuccessful, divers from the Altos and Skualo Diving Centers joined forces for a risky 45-minute underwater operation to free the whale.

Gigi Torras, who owns the Albatrol rescue center, recounted the initial nervousness displayed by the whale, with bubbles indicating its anxiety. However, as the divers diligently worked to cut away the net, a sense of trust seemed to develop between the rescuers and the whale. Torras explained, “We kept cutting and cutting, and she moved a bit to get herself out of it.”

Oídos palpitantes bajo el agua rescatan a una ballena jorobada de 12 metros de largo atrapada en una deriva ilegal frente a las islas Baleares

After the successful rescue, the whale stayed close to the divers for a while, seemingly regaining its strength before offering what appeared to be a small gesture of gratitude. The humpback whale’s departure was marked by what Torras described as “a little sign of thanks.”

Oídos palpitantes bajo el agua rescatan a una ballena jorobada de 12 metros de largo atrapada en una deriva ilegal frente a las islas Baleares

The use of drift nets has been banned by the United Nations for three decades due to the extensive bycatch of marine animals, in addition to the intended fish catch. This heartwarming rescue serves as a reminder of the critical importance of preserving marine ecosystems and the remarkable bonds that can form between humans and the creatures that inhabit them.