Rare 'false killer whale' rescued from Vancouver Island shore (PHOTOS/VIDEO)

(Credit: Vancouver Aquarium)



VANCOUVER ISLAND -- A beached false killer whale calf was rescued Thursday along the west coast of Canada.

Officials say the animal, between 4 and 6-weeks-old, had several wounds along his body.

A team from the Marine Mammal Rescue Centre at the Vancouver Aquarium jumped into action. As Canada's only professional rescue staff, they rushed to the surf near Tofino's North Chesterman Beach.

After getting approval from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the team transported the calf to the Rescue Centre in Vancouver.

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Around the clock care

Aquarium officials describe the baby whale's rehabilitation:


PHOTOS



What is a false killer whale?

Here's an explanation from the Vancouver Aquarium:


Click here to learn more about false killer whales >>