About the species
The North Atlantic right whale is a baleen whale, one of three right whale species all of which were previously considered a single species. Because of their docile nature, their slow surface-skimming feeding behaviors, their tendencies to stay close to the coast, and their high blubber content right whales were once a target for whalers. Modern Day, they are among the most endangered whales in the world!
Main threats
- Vessel strikes: The greatest danger to this species is injury sustained from ship strikes. Between the years of 1970 and 2006, 37% of all recorded North Atlantic right whale deaths were caused by collisions.
- Fishing gear entanglement: The next greatest source of mortality is entanglement in fishing gear such as bottom set groundfish gillnet gear, cod traps and lobster pots. Between 1970 and 2006, there have been 8 instances where entanglements have been the direct cause of death of North Atlantic right whales.
- Habitat changes: Climate change poses a clear and growing threat to right whales.
- Noise & disturbance: A 2011 analysis of data collected in the Bay of Fundy has shown that exposure to low-frequency ship noise may be associated with chronic physiological stress in North Atlantic right whales.
How you can help
- Support safe shipping
- Promote fishing gear safety
- Support research & NGOs
- Spread awareness
Gallery
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