35ft humpback whale trapped in California harbour

Rescuers are desperately trying to save a 35ft humpback whale that has become stranded in a California harbour.

The beautiful whale was spotted swimming back and forth in the Ventura Harbour, southern California, on Saturday afternoon.

See also: Why do whales jump out of the sea into the air?

See also: Baby whales 'whisper' to avoid predators

Harbour master John Higgins said the animal had been bumping into boats, explaining: "I know that earlier today when it was navigating... under the lower tide that it was bumping into boats and there was some superficial cuts and bruises to it, but I don't know to what extent."

Rescuers initially used a hydrophone to play recorded whale sounds in a bid to guide the whale back to the ocean.

According to Sky News, Dr Rachel Cartwright, a biology lecturer at California State University, said the noise could actually have made the whale more disoriented after bouncing round the harbour.

She said it might be more successful to keep things quiet.

People have gathered in the area to see the animal. According to The Sun, one said: "It's heartbreaking to see the whale lost and turned around. It's beautiful to see so close but sad circumstances."


One wildlife expert said the whale is probably a juvenile, as adult humpbacks measure between 48ft and 62ft.

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