Minke whales are caught as bycatch in gillnets and other fishing gear globally. Their entanglement causes significant suffering and mortality in populations facing multiple pressures.
Minke whale bycatch causes acute suffering through entanglement and drowning. Whales caught in gillnets experience intense fear and physical exhaustion as they struggle against restraint. Death by drowning in air-breathing cetaceans is prolonged and distressing. Even whales released from gear may suffer internal injuries, stress-related immune compromise, or entanglement marks causing long-term welfare impacts. Observer coverage in most fisheries is insufficient to accurately quantify bycatch rates. Welfare-improving mitigation includes acoustic deterrents, modified fishing gear, and area closures during whale aggregations.