‘Chester’ the rescued false killer whale to stay at the Vancouver Aquarium

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – A baby false killer whale found stranded near Tofino last summer will not be released back to the wild.

The whale, named “Chester” by Vancouver Aquarium staff, was in poor condition and had cuts on his body when he was rescued in July 2014.

A panel of experts put together by Fisheries and Oceans Canada has now determined the animal wouldn’t survive in the wild because of his young age, a lack of survival and foraging skills, and extensive contact with humans.

The aquarium successfully rehabilitated Chester, and he was kept in its care while the fisheries department decided on a long-term option. Head veterinarian Martin Haulena says this is the best option.

There is some good studies to show that the animals just don’t do very well. They become nuisance animals, they follow boats, beg for food and eventually it’s a very poor prognosis for those animals.” he explains. “He was stranded at a point in time where he’d still be completely dependant upon his mum so he was two months of age, no teeth, would have been nursing so he has absolutely not acquired any life skills.”

Chester will continue to be housed at the aquarium and will soon be introduced to a new roommate _ a Pacific white-sided dolphin named Helen.

Aquarium staff say there are 15 to 17 false killer whales living in captivity around the world, including some who are successfully living with dolphins.

(Courtesy Vancouver Aquarium)

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