31 Critically Endangered North Atlantic Right Whales Spotted off Nantucket, Face Increasing Mortality

31 critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, facing deadly ship strikes and entanglement, suffer high mortality, risking extinction without urgent action.

This year continues to be devastating for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, with a recent collision with a ship claiming the life of another member of this species. The North Atlantic right whale population has dwindled to less than 360, making them highly vulnerable to ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear. The loss of reproductive females poses a serious threat to the survival of the species.

Recent Tragedy

On a tragic note, a mother right whale, which had given birth to her sixth calf this season, was found dead 50 miles offshore east of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia Beach, Virginia. A necropsy revealed that the whale suffered catastrophic injuries, including a dislocated spine, consistent with blunt force trauma from a vessel strike.

Precarious Population

The right whale's population has seen a decline of about 25% from 2010 to 2020, and the recent deaths further exacerbate the already critical situation. The loss of these whales is a significant blow to the fragile population and raises concerns about its long-term survival.

Environmental Impact

The plight of the right whales has raised concerns among environmental groups, who emphasize that human activities continue to jeopardize the survival of this species. The whales' vulnerability to vessel strikes and entanglement underscores the urgent need for measures to mitigate these threats.

Call for Action

Environmental groups are advocating for tighter regulations on commercial fishing and shipping to protect the right whales. Additionally, there are calls for addressing the impact of ocean warming, which has led to changes in the whales' food sources and migration patterns, further exposing them to harm.

Legal Intervention

Some environmentalists have resorted to legal action to compel the federal government to implement a new vessel speed rule aimed at safeguarding the whales. There are also proposals for speed limits on fast ferries to protect the right whales in their migratory routes.

The Grim Reality

As the deaths of these majestic creatures continue to mount, the urgency of the situation becomes increasingly apparent. Wildlife experts and conservationists stress the need for immediate and decisive action to prevent further loss and ensure the survival of the North Atlantic right whale.

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