24/01/2006

Whale's bones to go to Natural History Museum

The whale, which died in the River Thames at the weekend, is to be given to the Natural History Museum.

The young female bottlenose whale made headlines around the world when she swam into the Thames last Friday.

Hundreds of spectators gathered to witness the sight - no such animal had been spotted in the Thames since records began in 1913.

However, following a massive rescue effort, costing £100,000, the whale tragically died, while being transported to deeper waters on a salvage barge.

It is not known how the whale ended up in the Thames, but some reports have suggested that sonar from Royal Navy ships could have disorientated the animal. However, the Ministry of Defence has denied that any ships were in the area when the whale was spotted.

A post-mortem examination on the whale is continuing, with the results expected to be released on Wednesday.

Following the vetinary examination, the whale's bones will be cleaned and preserved at the museum for research purposes.

The group that organised the rescue attempt, British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), have appealed for donations in order to raise money to cover the rescue effort.

A watering can, used by the rescue team, is being auctioned on Internet auction site eBay to help raise funds. Donations may also be made to BDMLR through the website at: www.bdmlr.org.uk or by contacting: 01825 765546.

Westminster Council has waived parking fines totalling £300, acquired by volunteers as they participated in the prolonged rescue effort.

(KMcA)

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