A humpback whale who swam into Maui, Hawaii waters tangled up in rope is now swimming free. NOAA officials say the captain of a fishing vessel reported the large whale’s entanglement and a trained response team was sent out to remove the rope.
They say the whale became “very active” when rescuers approached in their small inflatable craft, but after working for two days, they were able to remove the 285-feet of braided rope caught in its mouth.
"On release, the animal immediately breached several times," NOAA said. "With the removal of gear, it is believed that the animal has an excellent chance of surviving."
Source: Hawaii News Now