A new study has revealed how fishing gear can cause the slow death of whales. The study, published in the journal "Marine Mammal Science," found that whales can become entangled in fishing gear and suffer from a variety of injuries, including deep cuts, abrasions, and infections. These injuries can lead to the whales' death, either directly or indirectly.

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of British Columbia and the University of Washington. The researchers analyzed data from 186 whales that were found dead or stranded on the shores of British Columbia and Washington between 1997 and 2015. Of the 186 whales, 51 had been entangled in fishing gear.

The researchers found that the whales that had been entangled in fishing gear were more likely to die than those that had not been entangled. The whales that died from entanglement were more likely to have deep cuts, abrasions, and infections.

The researchers also found that the whales that had been entangled in fishing gear were more likely to suffer from other health problems, such as pneumonia, malnutrition, and stress. These health problems can also lead to the whales' death.

The study provides new evidence of the impact of fishing gear on whales. The researchers say that the study's findings have implications for the management of fisheries and the protection of whales.

How to Reduce the Risk of Whale Entanglement

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the risk of whale entanglement in fishing gear. These include:

* Using gear that is designed to reduce the risk of entanglement, such as traps and pots that have escape panels.

* Setting fishing gear in areas where whales are not known to frequent.

* Removing abandoned fishing gear from the ocean.

* Educating commercial fishermen about the risks of whale entanglement.

By taking these steps, we can help to reduce the risk of whale entanglement and protect these magnificent creatures.