Tragic Encounter: Minke Whale Fatally Struck by Boat in Barnegat Bay

Tragic Encounter: Minke Whale Fatally Struck by Boat in Barnegat Bay

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An 18-foot minke whale tragically died after a collision with a boat in Barnegat Bay last Saturday. The incident took place near the High Bar Harbor neighborhood at the northern part of Long Beach Island.

Footage obtained by NBC10 captured the moment of the accident, which resulted in a woman being knocked overboard and the boat almost tipping. Captain Charlie Nunn, who was operating the boat, indicated that this unfortunate event was not the result of disturbing the animal. He emphasized that, while it was indeed a close call, the woman was fortunate to have escaped without injury.

Nunn explained that the whale may have been anxious and reacted out of instinct, which can explain its sudden appearance in shallow waters. “They’re not supposed to be in three feet of water,” Nunn noted, suggesting that the pressure of its surroundings could have triggered a fight-or-flight response.

While the whale was deceased by the time marine mammal rescue teams arrived, this incident serves as a reminder of the need for caution and respect when navigating waters inhabited by marine wildlife. Incidents like these underline the importance of awareness and understanding of animal behavior in efforts to protect both marine creatures and boaters.

This sad event hopes to encourage further conversation on protective measures for wildlife and responsible boating practices. Such discussions are vital as we continue to share our coastal environments with the diverse marine life that inhabits them.

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