The BDMLR Large Whale Disentanglement Team (LWDT) was established to help large whales entangled in marine debris, which impedes their movement across the oceans. Assisting these huge animals (humpback whales weigh up to 40 tonnes, fin whales weigh up to 120 tonnes) requires a high degree of expertise and specialist equipment.
The BDMLR Large Whale Disentanglement Team is a specially selected group of experienced BDMLR Marine Mammal Medics who undergo a substantial selection process and continuous training in the dangerous task of whale disentanglement. They are equipped with specialist technical equipment, which is held in two mobile units (the only kits in the whole of Europe): one in South West England and the other on the Moray coast of Scotland. These two areas are historically the most likely areas to find large whales such as humpback, fin, and sperm whales. However, both kits are mobile and can travel wherever they are needed.
The LWDT members are based throughout the UK and can respond to incidents nationally and even internationally. The team has attended rescues in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, Scottish Borders, the north east of England, and in 2015, a team was sent to Iceland, where over five days managed to remove all the entangling gear from a free-swimming humpback whale (see top picture). Recent rescues have been on Westray in Orkney, the Isle of Skye, and Loch Fyne.
Contrary to popular belief, the team does not enter the water with the whales, as this would be extremely dangerous. Instead, it uses highly trained boat crews, specialist grapples, blades, buoys, and satellite telemetry to track, tire, and ultimately free animals in the safest way possible for both whale and humans. However, this is the most dangerous thing BDMLR does.
BDMLR is a partner in the Scottish Entanglement Alliance, working together to reduce incidents in the creel fishing industry.
All the specialist equipment the team uses is incredibly expensive due to its high quality and unique use. Everything from the special glove to haul ropes to the helmets keeping the team safe is essential for us to help these entangled whales. You can help the team by donating to BDMLR. Simply click on the box below. There is no set amount you have to pay; simply choose either one of our suggested amounts or choose your own. If you’d like to help regularly, why not join our Ocean Allies crew and assist whales, dolphins, and seals each month? To do so, just click here to be taken to the Ocean Allies page. Thank you.