A Humpback whale hit by a BC Ferries vessel on North Vancouver Island is likely to survive.
That comes from Marine Education & Research Society, who says in a social media post that the whale calf named Crochet was hit near Port McNeill on Thursday.
The incident left Crochet with a gash on their upper right fluke and bruising on their right side.
In a statement about the incident, BC Ferries says the whale unexpectedly emerged close to the vessel.
“Our crew quickly followed protocols, stopping the vessel’s propellers to prevent further harm and immediately reporting the incident to our operations center, Fisheries & Oceans Canada, local researchers, and the ‘Namgis First Nation,” said BC Ferries.
They say they are deeply concerned about the incident, with the ferry-line working to get the crew the support they need as they process that situation.
The society says after 3 hours of monitoring, the calf is likely to survive with no serious injuries. Crochet will be monitored in the meantime.
They add that the community has been asked to give Crochet space at this time.
