Humpback whale spotted swimming in river Thames

7 October 2019, 10:35

A humpback whale has been spotted swimming in the river Thames
A humpback whale has been spotted swimming in the river Thames. Picture: @RichardJBanner

By Asher McShane

A humpback whale has been spotted swimming in the river Thames.

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue organisation said yesterday that they observed the whale for just over three hours, diving and surfacing at “approximately 5-6 minute intervals, slowly moving down river with the outgoing tide.”

Several people posted sightings of the whale on Twitter.

David Callahan wrote: “Probable Humpback Whale in the Thames today, off Rainham”

Richard Banner posted: “Not brilliant photos, because once I had a camera ready, it never surfaced close again but in fifty years of sailing the river Thames first time I've met a whale there!”

Last year a beluga whale lived in the Thames for three months.

Benny the Beluga was first spotted on September 25 last year with sightings reported in November and December.

Experts said the whale headed home after it wasn’t spotted for some time.