News: The Humpback Whale That Was Spotted Swimming in Montreal Waters Has Died Today

World Oceans Day update: The humpback whale that was spotted swimming in Montreal waters has died today

Yesterday I posted about the humpback whale swimming in the St.Lawrence River in Montreal as part of my World Oceans Day celebration. The whale was first spotted on May 30 and as far as local marine biologists were aware, this was the first time that a humpback whale had been spotted in Montreal waters. I'm sad to report that today that same whale was found floating dead in the St. Lawrence River. 

According to CBC it is not yet known what the cause of death is, but the whale was discovered this morning floating lifelessly in the St. Lawrence River near Varennes, about 30 km downstream from the city. Simon Lebrun, a marine pilot, posted a video of the whale on social media after spotting it floating near Beauregard Island.

Co-ordinator for the Quebec Marine Mammal Emergency Network Robert Michaud said he believes the whale in the video is the same one spotted in Montreal last week. He will be assisting Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the faculty of veterinary medicine at the University of Montreal in removing the whale's body, that could weigh as much as 12 tonnes, so a necropsy can be performed.

While we don't yet know why the whale has died, events like this make it impossible to ignore the importance of keeping our waterways and oceans clean. This is a devastating loss and a stark reminder of what's at stake if we don't put a stop to pollution. Find out more by visiting CBC news. If you would like to know more about how you can help keep the oceans clean, check out these 15 ways to save the habitat of the humpback whale. I would also ask that everyone reading this sign the 30x30 petition calling on world leaders to protect 30% of our blue planet by 2030.

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