Authorities issue shark warning over whale that swam 11km upstream in Clarence River and later died
Summary
A juvenile humpback whale swam 11 kilometers upstream in the Clarence River in New South Wales before dying and being towed out to sea. Authorities warned the public about increased shark activity near the area and advised people to avoid swimming and surfing at nearby beaches.Key Facts
- The whale was spotted near Bundjalung National Park and became stranded on a sandbar before dying.
- Increased shark activity was reported around the area, leading to public warnings.
- Whales sometimes enter rivers out of curiosity, illness, or misadventure, although it is rare.
- Most humpback whales are migrating south toward Antarctica at this time of year to feed.
- Other similar whale river entries have occurred in NSW and other parts of Australia in recent years.
- The juvenile whale had barnacles on its skin, possibly indicating chronic illness or injury.
- Authorities recommend reporting whales in unusual places or in distress to environmental groups.
- Whale carcasses in the water can attract sharks, so people should avoid those areas until bodies are removed.
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