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A rare type of whale that washed up on a beach near Tofino has been rescued and brought back to the Vancouver Aquarium’s rescue centre for evaluation.
The false killer whale, which appears to be grey in a photo, is distinct from the average killer whale (Orcinus orca) and is a member of the dolphin family.
It has since been transported to Vancouver for treatment.
The centre rescues stranded marine mammals and rehabilitates them for release back into their natural habitat if the animal is healthy enough.
These whales have apparently been known to approach and offer fish they have caught to humans diving or boating.
Agencies/Canadajournal
This False killer whale (FKW) was taken to a non public Vancouver Aquarium facility on the waterfront in Vancouver NOT the Vancouver Aquarium circus. Captive, performing cetaceans are obviously not necessary to conduct rescues, rehab, and releases. There are numerous people conducting this work in BC and WA. In addition there are many locations to hold those truly in need of help. The multimillion dollar planned Aquarium expansion, with more dolphin pools and many more captives, must be stopped.
In 1992 there was a lone FKW swimming around Vancouver. In 1987 a pod of 12 was sighted in the Pacific Northwest when they are usually found in warmer waters. It is believed that while some died the others either died or left the area. This one remained for unknown reason(s). This one had blotchy skin and the Vancouver Aquarium said they might intervene. The Vancouver based Lifeforce continuously monitor the health and behaviour to try to prevent any capture. The FKW stayed around until 2005.
Freedom NOT Captivity!