Minke whales are the most frequently seen large whale in UK waters. Their welfare faces threats from entanglement, noise pollution, and vessel strikes.
Minke whale welfare in UK waters is primarily threatened by entanglement in creel and pot fishing gear. Entangled whales can drag gear for weeks, causing exhaustion, injury, and slow death. Disentanglement by trained BDMLR teams can save entangled animals, but success depends on early reporting. Underwater noise pollution affects minke whale communication and feeding behaviour. Sustainable fisheries and quieter shipping are the most relevant welfare interventions.