Euthanasia may be the only option for a baby whale lost in waters north of Sydney, after it was apparently abandoned by its mother.
Wildlife services said that the humpback whale calf, which appears to be only two to three weeks old, won’t be able to survive without the care provided by a mother.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service spokesman John Dengate has told 2GB’s Jason Morrison his staff have all been affected by the ‘heart wrenching’ situation.
Desperate for care, the calf - which has been dubbed 'Colin' - has been nuzzling up to whale-sized yachts, seemingly mistaking the vessels for its mother.
“Normally whales stay very, very close to their mothers. They're inseparable and they suckle for 11 months before being weaned,” Mr Dengate said.
A number of options have been investigated such as captive care, and even trying to find another whale to adopt it – but without the time, money and resources these things can’t be done.
Mr Dengate said despite a flood of support from concerned Sydney-siders, the whale has slim chances of survival.
“It’s the hardest issue I’ve ever seen in this sort or regard.”
Trevor Long, the marine service director at Sea World on the Gold Coast, today recommended the animal be euthanased.
"We have considered all possibilities and exhausted all possible rescue scenarios and along with other experts in the field, we agree the animal's suffering should not be prolonged, and advocate for a humane outcome," he said.
The calf is currently at Pittwater, in the Basin area, swimming around the yachts – people are being advised to keep their distance.