NORTH ATLANTIC – The North Atlantic right whales, critically endangered with approximately 356 remaining, including fewer than 80 breeding females, are entering their calving season. This migration south for birthing before returning north to feed makes them particularly vulnerable to boat strikes.
Right whales have been spotted this week off the coast of New Jersey.
This year, the issue of whale safety is at the forefront as dozens of whales have died along the Jersey Shore. While anti-wind activists linked these deaths to offshore wind farm sonar surveying, officials said many of the whales were struck by boats.
NOAA’s Fisheries Service proposed mandatory, seasonal slow zones for boat traffic last year to protect these whales. However, the rule’s introduction faces delays and opposition from some Congress members.
Today’s whale sighting emphasizes the urgent need for implementing the Vessel Speed Rule to avert potential tragedies.