Wayward Middle Keys Whale Shark 'In Distress'

July 15, 2009

Release from: KeysNet.com

A whale shark that's been hanging around Vaca Cut apparently is injured and "is definitely in distress."

So says Turtle Hospital Administrator Ryan Butts, who says that on Jan. 8, the day the Keynoter reported that the 25-foot animal was so close to land that people were swimming with it, "witnesses reported several prop scars and monofilament entanglement around the shark's tail. One report even said it had a [lobster] trap around its tail."

Whale sharks can grow up to 40 feet long but generally are considered gentle. They normally live in deep water; that's why the one around Vaca Cut has been causing such a stir -- but, Butts says, to its detriment.

Vaca Cut's currents can be rough, and handling a boat going through it can be difficult, meaning the greater chance of striking the shark.

"Whale sharks are an endangered species and this one is known to be in distress," Butt says. "We encourage everyone to be extremely careful while navigating boats in and around the east end of Marathon and Vaca Cut."

He also cautions against the urge to jump in and swim with it.

"A human could easily be injured or even killed with a swat of its powerful tail."

The animal was first reported north of Florida Keys Marathon Airport, in about 8 to 10 feet of water, almost four weeks ago.

Anyone who spots it should call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at (888) 404-3922.