Featured Image Credit: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
By: Sarah Sharkey
The North Atlantic right whale is a species that on the decline. The population was hit extremely hard by whaling decades ago and has never been able to recover. There are fewer than 500 animals left in the population which is a terrifyingly low number.
Anyone who loves whales is extremely worried about this species. Last year, researchers were especially worried because no new calves were born. Without new babies, the population would never be able to recover. It was a depressing season of whale watching.
However, the whales seem to be making a comeback this year. Three new calves have been born this winter! Although there is a low number, it is much more encouraging than zero.
These whales are one of the most endangered populations and on the planet. Only 411 whales remain according to the last count. Not only is reproduction slow, but whales are dying at a quick rate. Between strandings, gear entanglement, and vessel strikes. These endangered whales become rarer every single day.
Although the calves are definitely worth celebrating, three new calves cannot stop the slow path towards extinction. The gentles giants are facing threats from all sides and we need to do everything in our power to protect them.
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