sponsor
Homepage > Boston News
E-Mail News Alerts
Get breaking news and daily headlines.
Browse all e-mail newsletters

Whale Spotted In Boston Harbor

Experts Worry About Animal's Interaction With Boaters

POSTED: 5:42 pm EDT May 7, 2004
UPDATED: 6:06 pm EDT May 7, 2004

A baby Beluga whale has been making appearances in Boston Harbor, but there is concern that the whale may be put in harm's way because of natural curiosity.

Video
NewsCenter 5's Sonya Pfeiffer reported that the whale, named Poco, is believed to be about 5 to 7 years old and to weigh 1,000 pounds.

"Everybody was up and looking for the animal, which was right off the stern. It was excellent," boat captain Dayle Sullivan-Taylor said. "I think he went into the jet bubbles. He probably hasn't seen jet bubbles before."

Poco's proper home is New Brunswick, Canada, but he's been sighted nine times in Boston Harbor in April and May.

"He is interacting with boats, it would appear. We want to make sure that people and this whale remain safe," New England Aquarium spokeswoman Connie Merigo said.

The whale's behavior has marine specialists concerned. They are advising people to steer clear of Poco and observe the whale from a distance.

"He will come up to the boat. He will try to interact with you. He seems like he wants to play, and we really need people to resist the temptation to try to play with the whale, because he is not really playing with you, he is attracted to the object, the boat," U.S. Fishery Department spokeswoman Teri Frady said.

Officials hope that as the water temperature rises, Poco's food supply will move out to sea and that the whale will follow.

Links We Like
Sponsored Content
Are you or a loved one recovering from a heart attack? Our Heart Attack Recovery Guide will nurse you back to good health. More

If you’re in the market for a new home or you’re planning on building your dream home you need to make sure you follow the correct steps. Find everything you need to know here. More

In the workplace it’s the little things that get you noticed and help you stand out above the rest. Do these things and increase your chances for a promotion. More

The signs of Cancer can sometimes be very subtle. Here's a guide to help you recognize them early. More

Like online video? Then you'll love Now See This.
PhotoVote
Check out this week's PhotoVote contest, "Dogs At Play"
Plus, navigate through our archives.
Favorites: Cute Kittens | Odd Couples | Oops
Sponsored Links