Rescuers untangle blue whale from fishing lines in California

Rescue teams worked hard yesterday (Monday) to try an untangle a blue whale from fishing lines off the coast of California.

A spokesperson for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Mike Milstein, said that the whale seemed to have become stuck in a line from a crab trap.

See also: Fearless diver rescues 45ft whale from fishing net

See also: "I'm free!: Watch this whale's 'thankyou' dance to fishermen in California

The rope was wrapped around the whale's take.

Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Safari helped authorities with saving the animal.

Chuck Gathers, a worker at the company, says that the crab nets limited the animals mobility.

According to the organisation Whales and Dolphin Conservation, "more than 300,000 whales, dolphins and porpoises die every year as a result of being caught in fishing gear and nets. This 'bycatch', as it is known, is the single biggest killer of whales, dolphins and porpoises in all the oceans across the globe. It also causes horrific injuries."

WDC is working with fishermen to bring about simple changes to fishing practices that can make a real difference.

You can find out how to support the organisation here.