With your donation, we will create a legacy of hope in honor of the 8 critically endangered North Atlantic right whales who have died since January.
How Many North Atlantic Right Whales Are There?
Fewer than 360, with only ~70 breeding females.
What are the most dangerous threats to these whales?
Vessel strikes and accidental entanglement in fishing gear are at the top of the list. Four of this year’s tragedies were from vessel strikes and one from an accidental entanglement in fishing gear. Sadly, these deaths were preventable. In addition, three newborns are missing, and their bodies have not been found.
How have these threats impacted the North Atlantic right whale population in recent years?
Since 2020, at least 30 North Atlantic right whales have died or been injured from known entanglements, and 14 have died or been injured by vessel strikes.
The 19 new calves born in the 2023-2024 North Atlantic right whale calving season brought hope for the future, but only 14 calves have survived. The survival of these 14 newborns is critical for the future of this species.
Can modern technology help with accidental entanglements?
Yes! In true collaboration with scientists, engineers, NGOs, federal and state partners, and commercial fishermen, we are testing on-demand fishing gear. This new technology removes the lines that pose the most significant risk of entangling whales while allowing fishing communities to thrive.
WDC is entering its fifth season of testing on-demand gear. Based on more than 5,000 hauls by fishermen at sea, the success rate is over 90%, and we know there is a future where whales and fishing can coexist. Further testing is needed to make this a commercial reality, and with your help, it is possible to get there.
Can vessel strikes be reduced?
Yes!! We continue to work to reduce the risk of vessel strikes through collaboration and initiatives like expanding seasonal slow-down zones where right whales congregate. Like school zones when school is in session, these speed restrictions are temporary but allow boaters to spot and avoid a whale and give whales more time to avoid an approaching vessel.
How Can I Help??
Sadly, human activities have caused these tragedies – we now must work on human solutions to prevent them in the future.