ST. JOHN'S, N.L. -- A whale rescuer is urging boaters in Newfoundland to steer clear and call it in if they see a humpback dragging fishing gear.
Wayne Ledwell says the whale was last reported Tuesday night off Bonavista Bay in eastern Newfoundland pulling a fisherman's buoy.
The distinctive orange balloon was about 100 metres behind the 50-tonne whale, which is believed to be dragging a long rope and other gear.
A fisherman in Placentia Bay in southern Newfoundland reported losing 17 snow crab pots in late June that match what was seen on the whale.
Ledwell heads the group Whale Release and Strandings and says the powerful creature could sink a small boat if its propeller got caught.
Anyone who sees the entangled humpback is asked to call the rescue group at 1-888-895-3003.
