Humpback whale waves goodbye as it leaves East Alligator River unscathed
THE humpback whale that captured worldwide attention after it decided to swim up the croc-infested East Alligator River has finally headed back out to the open ocean
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THE humpback whale that captured worldwide attention after it decided to swim up the croc-infested East Alligator River has finally headed back out to the open ocean
The whale, along with two others, was found about 30km upstream earlier this month.
While two left shortly after entering the muddy waters of the East Alligator one stayed in a deep well in the river swimming a continuous 400m circuit.
The whales were first spotted on September 2.
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Kakadu National Park country and culture section manager Feach Moyle said it was great to see the whale make its own way out of the river over the weekend.
“After monitoring the whale this weekend, we’re delighted to see it has made its way out of Kakadu’s East Alligator River and into Van Diemen Gulf,” he said.
“The whale made its way out on the high tides of this weekend and we’re pleased it appeared to be in good condition and not suffering any ill effects.
“We’re so grateful to Kakadu’s Traditional Owners, national park staff and scientists from the NT and across the county, who have worked together to manage this very unusual situation for a good outcome.”
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NT Government senior scientist Dr Carol Palmer said the whale rescuing itself was the best possible outcome.
“This is great news. It’s been fantastic working with staff at Kakadu as well as expert scientists to identify ways to assist the whale, but I’m very happy it has found its own way. This is the very best outcome we could have hoped for,” she said.
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