The Whales Have Arrived
10:22 Dec 31, '06 / 10 Tevet 5767
(IsraelNN.com) A large pack of whales has arrived in the Gulf waters in Eilat, including a number of females and calves.
According to the Haifa-based Israel Marine Mammals Research and Assistance Center, the huge mammals were attracted by the food found around the fish cages being used in the waters around Israel’s southernmost port city.
The group is comprised of false killer whales, an endangered species. Adults can weigh up to 1.5 tons and reach an average length of 9 meters (approximately 27 feet).
Their appearance in Eilat was cause for great celebration by the whale conservation group. Said IMMRAC spokeswoman Miri Kalifa, “This is the first time that such a large pack of whales has been observed off the shores of Eilat, and it is definitely exciting.” The center itself is endangered by budget cuts.