Wildlife

Marine Mammal Entanglement in Fishing Gear

Entanglement in fishing gear — known as bycatch — is the leading cause of death for many marine mammal species, including whales, dolphins, and seals.

Key Facts

Entanglement kills an estimated 300,000 cetaceans globally each year
Entangled animals often suffer for days or weeks before dying
Ropeless fishing gear and pingers can dramatically reduce entanglement rates
Some species like the vaquita have been driven near extinction by bycatch
Trained disentanglement teams have saved hundreds of large whales

Welfare Considerations

Marine mammals caught in fishing gear endure prolonged suffering from injuries, stress, and exhaustion. Whales can carry gear for months, leading to starvation and infection. Ropeless trap technology, acoustic deterrents, and time-area closures are proven solutions that allow fisheries to operate while dramatically reducing entanglement mortality.

What You Can Do

Support fisheries certified by Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)
Advocate for mandatory ropeless gear adoption in whale habitat areas
Donate to marine mammal disentanglement response teams
Reduce consumption of seafood from high-bycatch fisheries
Contact your representatives to support stronger bycatch regulations