Nothing can twist emotions more than watching an animal entangled in human waste. Even the sight of seeing a turtle cross the road can make us stop the car and get out contributing to finish the job.
Thankfully, sometimes the animals themselves can provide us with a visible request when in need of help. Ivan Iskenderian and Michael Riggio were fishing in Sydney’s Middle Harbour, Roseville when they were fortunate enough to become this whale’s hero.
Watch as they are surprised by a very large Souther Right Whale that pops up out of the water. The whale approaches the starboard (right) side of the boat as if making a proper request. Curiously, the angler leans over to see what the problem is, realizing there is something attached to the whale’s top.
The whale edges in closer, and gently lifts himself out of the water to position himself better for the angler to remove the plastic bag and fishing line from his mouth. The fisherman gently and safely tugs free the waste while onlookers record with audible praise.
As he slips gently back into the water, the whale breathes a sigh of relief in thanks.
Pay it forward, whale!