- An orca has been swimming in the Seine for weeks.
- With the help of whale sounds, helpers are now trying to guide the lost animal towards the sea.
A group of scientists, police and fire brigade, among others, started the operation at the weekend near the northern French coast, as announced by the responsible prefecture of Seine-Maritime based in Rouen.
It was initially unclear whether the campaign would be successful. “It’s experimental,” said bioacoustics researcher Charlotte Curé. “We’re not at all sure that this will work, but it’s worth trying.”
Because the animal is already so weak, the authorities, after consulting experts, decided to use the unusual noise method. This avoids using a ship at close range, which could increase the stress level of the animal.
The whale sounds are played underwater with a loudspeaker when used. The research teams then want to look from boats some distance away to see how the orca reacts to the sounds – whether it’s attracted to them or hesitant. Why the animal appeared in the Seine is unclear.