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The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is warning Vancouverites against getting too close to the grey whale that has been found in waters off the English Bay this past week.

Stay away from Grey whale or face jail time and hefty fine


Leeanna McLean
Digital Reporter

Monday, October 12, 2015, 4:04 PM - The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is warning Vancouverites against getting too close to the grey whale that has been found in waters off the English Bay this past week.

Boaters are reminded to stay at least 100 metres away from marine wildlife, noted the DFO. Those who don't could face up to one year in jail and can be fined up to $100,000, which are both possible under the Fisheries Act.

"In short, our interactions with marine wildlife may cause them unnecessary stress, which could potentially threaten their lives," DFO spokesperson Leri Davies told CTV. 


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Davies added passing directly in front or behind a whale can disrupt their search for food, prevent them from escaping large crowds or even care for their young. 

Recent posts to social media show paddlers and boaters approaching grey whales in Vancouver.

There were a few recent instances where the public got too close to marine animals, according to the DFO, including when a pod of orcas surfaced around Coal Harbour and when whales were spotted in Deep Cove and Burrard Inlet. There were also reports of drone aircrafts flying close to the water's surface, CTV noted.

While it may not be easy to maintain a 100 metre distance from marine wildlife, it is suggested to move slowly away from the animal should it come close.

The DFO is asking anyone who sees someone interacting with a whale to call its Observe and Report line at 1-800-465-4336. The line goes to its radio room and is forwarded to officers in the field who can investigate.

Source: CTV

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