The North Atlantic Right Whale species, the world’s most endangered large whale species, is on the brink of extinction, according to new research. NOAA has declared a “crisis” for these whales, estimating that there are only a few hundred individuals left in the world’s oceans.
NOAA stated in an updated fact sheet that there are now fewer than 350 North Atlantic Right Whales left, with less than 70 reproductively active females remaining. This dire situation is a result of an ongoing unusual mortality event since 2017, in which a significant number of these whales have been unexpectedly dying.
Previous estimates suggested that fewer than 100 whales were part of the mortality event. However, the government agency has revised this number after further analysis. In the past six years, at least 114 whales have been impacted, with 36 deaths, 33 serious injuries, and 45 cases of sublethal injuries or illness. This situation is particularly alarming as it primarily affects adult females and calves, vital for the species’ survival.
NOAA’s spokesperson, Andrea Gomez, mentioned that additional cases will continue to be reviewed, and more information will be obtained to include any relevant animals to the updated figures. Unfortunately, the revised tally may not accurately reflect the full extent of the problem, as only about one-third of right whale deaths are documented, according to NOAA.
The main threats contributing to the mortality of North Atlantic Right Whales are entanglements and vessel strikes, which have long hindered the species’ recovery. These whales are colossal, weighing up to 140,000 pounds and growing up to 52 feet long. While they should live up to 70 years, many of the injured or deceased whales are much younger.
Recent incidents, such as the discovery of a 20-year-old male right whale with a catastrophic blunt force traumatic injury and a dead newborn under a pier, highlight the urgency of the situation. NOAA warns that unless immediate action is taken to significantly reduce human-caused mortality and injury, the North Atlantic Right Whales will continue to decline, jeopardizing their chances of recovery.
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