Bryde's Whale Injured in Boat Collision Near Weizhou Island

A vessel owner has been questioned after a Bryde's whale was struck and injured by a fishing boat near Weizhou Island in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, local authorities said yesterday, following online videos that sparked public concern.

In a statement, the Weizhou Island Tourism Zone administrative committee said it launched an immediate investigation after footage circulated on Monday showing a whale with a visible back injury. Law enforcement officers located the vessel owner and summoned him for questioning the same night.

Preliminary findings showed the boat, registered as Weizhou 0008, had completed the required departure filings before setting out on the morning of February 7 to lay shrimp nets about 3 nautical miles offshore. At around 3:30pm, while returning to port roughly 1 nautical mile from shore, the vessel collided with the whale.

Authorities said the cabin's rear placement caused the bow to lift during navigation, limiting forward visibility. When the operator spotted the whale — less than 10 meters ahead — it was too late to brake or avoid the collision. Officials added that the nearshore waters are not typically a frequent habitat for Bryde's whales.

Researchers from Nanjing Normal University, who have long monitored whales in the area, identified the injured animal as WZ-056. The whale bears a white scar measuring about 50 to 60 centimeters on the right side of its back. Experts said the injury is not expected to cause serious harm, and observations over the past two days indicate the whale continues to move normally in nearby waters.

Authorities said the incident remains under investigation and that the vessel owner will be handled in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. Researchers are continuing to monitor the whale's condition and will implement rescue measures if necessary.

Bryde's whales are frequently sighted off Weizhou Island, contributing to a growing whale-watching tourism industry, though concerns have emerged over vessel behavior in whale habitats.

Witnesses told Ziniu News the injured whale is believed to be a well-known individual nicknamed "Scar Brother," recognizable from earlier propeller injuries. Observers said the whale often surfaces near boats, increasing its exposure to risk.

Regional whale-watching guidelines require vessels to slow to no more than 5 knots within 300 meters of whale activity and to stop engines at around 100 meters. Maritime operators are also required to maintain a proper lookout and avoid whales when sighted.