North Atlantic Right Whale Updates
Get the latest North Atlantic right whale updates from NOAA Fisheries.
Endangered North Atlantic right whales are approaching extinction. An Unusual Mortality Event was declared for North Atlantic right whales in 2017, and currently includes 126 individuals (40 dead, 34 seriously injured, and 52 sublethally injured or ill). The primary causes of the UME are entanglements in fishing gear and vessel strikes in both U.S. and Canadian waters, which are long-standing threats to the recovery of the species.
Right Whale Seen Entangled off Block Island
April 12, 2024
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On April 9, 2024, a NOAA aerial survey reported an entangled North Atlantic right whale swimming approximately 50 miles south of Block Island, Rhode Island. The whale has been identified as adult male #4143. He was first seen as a calf in 2011 and most recently seen gear-free in Cape Cod Bay in March 2024.
Right whale #4143 has rope coming out of both sides of its mouth. The rope also trails beyond the flukes, but the rope does not wrap around the whole body. Fortunately, the whale’s overall condition is good, and he was observed feeding during the aerial sighting. Given the long distance from shore, experts were unable to safely travel to the last known location of the whale during daylight to attempt a rescue. NOAA Fisheries and our partners will monitor this whale and attempt to respond to the entanglement, if possible, as weather and safety conditions allow.
After reviewing this new entanglement, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that it meets the Unusual Mortality Event criteria as a “morbidity” (sublethal injury) case. Right whale #4143 is the 126th right whale and 52nd morbidity case in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event.
Boaters are encouraged to call in sightings of this, and other entangled or injured whales to the Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (866) 755-6622 and the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (877) WHALE-HELP ((877) 942-5343), or to hail the US Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16.
Dead Right Whale (#1950) Off Virginia
April 4, 2024
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On April 2, 2024, experts conducted a necropsy (animal autopsy) on the adult female North Atlantic right whale #1950. Preliminary findings included catastrophic injuries with a dislocation of the whale’s spine and fractures to all vertebrae in the lower back. These findings are consistent with blunt force trauma from a vessel strike prior to death. Additional histological and diagnostic testing of samples is pending. NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is investigating this incident.
Human impacts continue to threaten the survival of this species. Vessel strikes are one of the leading causes of the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event. The loss of a reproductive female is particularly devastating to the population, and this whale had a young, dependent calf. The calf has not been seen since it was last spotted with its mother on February 16, 2024 off Amelia Island, Florida. We do not expect the calf to survive without protection and nursing from its mother.
Mariners operating along the U.S. East Coast are encouraged to slow their vessel speed, stay alert, and report any sightings of right whales or any dead, injured, or entangled whales. Report any sightings of these animals to the Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (866) 755-6622 and the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (877) WHALE-HELP ((877) 942-5343).
April 2, 2024
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On the morning of March 30, 2024, a company conducting Mid-Atlantic whale surveys for the Navy (HDR, Inc.), notified NOAA Fisheries of a dead North Atlantic right whale. It was floating approximately 50 miles offshore east of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia. The whale has been identified as adult female #1950—a mom from the 2024 calving season. She was first seen in 1989 and gave birth to her sixth calf this winter. Her calf was not seen in the vicinity of the carcass. NOAA Fisheries and our partners have towed the whale to shore for a necropsy. The whale carcass was scavenged by sharks; wind, weather, and distance from shore presented additional logistical challenges for the tow. We will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.
Unfortunately, this whale is the 40th mortality in the ongoing Unusual Mortality Event impacting North Atlantic right whales. Her calf is also considered a seriously injured dependent calf in the UME due to the death of its mother. The UME began in 2017 and has documented 125 individuals so far, including these two whales: 40 dead, 34 seriously injured, and 51 otherwise sick or injured whales.
Report any sightings of injured or stranded whales (dead or alive) and maintain a 500-yard (1,500-foot) distance. The Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline is (866) 755-6622 and the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline is (877) WHALE-HELP ((877) 942-5343).
Thank you to the many partners and agencies involved in this effort so far, and those assisting with the necropsy.
Partners Assisting with Recovering, Towing, and Identifying #1950
- HDR, Inc. funded by United States Fleet Forces Command and managed by Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Atlantic under the U.S. Navy’s Marine Species Monitoring Program
- Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
- Virginia Marine Resources Commission
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute funded by United States Army Corps of Engineers
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources
- New England Aquarium
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector Southeast New England
- A skilled, local towing company
Partners Assisting with Necropsy
- Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- International Fund for Animal Welfare
- Marine Mammals of Maine
- North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
- North Carolina State University's Center for Marine Sciences and Technology
- North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
- Whale and Dolphin Conservation
North Atlantic Right Whale Calf of Juno (2024 Calf of #1612)
March 7, 2024
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On March 4, 2024, experts completed a necropsy of the calf. There were multiple lacerations on the head from the recent vessel strike. They had penetrated into deep soft tissues and bone, leading to multiple sites of necrosis (tissue death). Human impacts continue to threaten the survival of this species. Vessel strikes and entanglement in fishing gear are the primary causes of the Unusual Mortality Event.
The response and necropsy examination was conducted by partners including:
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- University of North Carolina, Wilmington
- Blue World Research Institute
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Cumberland Island National Seashore
- Savannah State University
- University of Florida
- NOAA Office of Law Enforcement
March 4, 2024
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On March 3, 2024, NOAA Fisheries was notified of a dead North Atlantic right whale stranded on Cumberland Island National Seashore in Georgia. Along with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, we identified the whale as the injured 2024 calf of right whale #1612 “Juno." The calf was first seen on January 3, 2024, with serious injuries to its head, mouth, and lip from a vessel strike.
The carcass was heavily scavenged by sharks. Responders identified it as Juno’s calf based on the unique injuries and markings documented when the calf was alive. Due to the state of the carcass, we will use genetic testing to determine the sex.
We will continue to work with our partners to perform a necropsy and evaluate the vessel strike wounds. Juno’s calf was previously added to the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event as a serious injury, but will now be included as the 39th mortality case.
March 2, 2024
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On February 26, 2024, aerial and vessel survey teams observed Juno and her calf approximately 15 miles off St. Andrew Sound, Georgia. The calf was bleeding from the previously documented vessel strike wounds. On February 27, 2024, aerial and vessel survey teams searched for Juno and the calf and found them approximately 2 miles off St. Simons Island, Georgia. There was no visible bleeding from the calf’s wounds. On March 2, 2024, Juno was seen off St. Augustine, Florida without her calf.
February 9, 2024
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Right whale #1612 “Juno” and her injured calf were seen via aerial and vessel surveys on February 1, 2024, approximately 23 miles east of Sapelo Island, Georgia. Researchers observed apparent successful nursing. However, the long-term prognosis for the calf is still considered poor due to the severity of its injuries.
NOAA Fisheries will continue to work with authorized responders to monitor this calf. Mariners operating along the U.S. East Coast should slow down, stay alert, and report any sightings of right whales or any dead, injured, or entangled whales. Report any sightings of North Atlantic right whales to the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (877) WHALE-HELP ((877) 942-5343) or the Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (866) 755-6622.
January 26, 2024
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NOAA Fisheries is conducting an ongoing assessment of the injury to the calf of the North Atlantic right whale known as “Juno.” We consulted with experts from the New England Aquarium, Forensic Naval Architect Paul Kamen, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and others. With our partners, we reviewed photographs and aerial videography to determine if any information about the vessel could be gained from measurements of the propeller lacerations on the calf. Based on this assessment, preliminary estimates indicate the vessel involved in the incident was likely between 35–57 feet in length. This estimate is subject to change should additional information become available.
We have not received any recent reports of a vessel involved in a whale strike. We know the strike occurred between December 9, 2023, and January 3, 2024, likely along the southeastern U.S. coast. The mother calf pair were seen off Florida in December and again off South Carolina in January.
NOAA Fisheries and our partners will continue to review and assess the available photographs and video and provide updates as new information becomes available. We will continue to work with authorized responders to monitor this calf. Mariners operating along the U.S. East Coast are encouraged to slow their vessel speed, stay alert, and report any sightings of right whales or any dead, injured, or entangled whales. NOAA is asking the public to report any sightings of these animals to (877) WHALE-HELP (877-942-5343).
January 12, 2024
Juno (#1612) and her injured calf were seen by researchers on January 11, 2024, near Amelia Island, Florida.
The wounds to the calf are severe. We are heartened that the calf survived the initial injury, and there is some evidence of healing. However, we do not know the full extent of the wounds below the surface. We remain concerned the calf may eventually die from internal injuries, infection, or impaired behavior, particularly nursing, given the damage to the lip. We will continue to work with authorized responders to monitor this calf and further document its injuries.
January 10, 2024
On January 6, 2024, the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Region was notified of a North Atlantic right whale with an injured calf off Edisto, South Carolina. The calf was seen on January 3, 2024. Videos shared by the public on social media show several propeller wounds on the head, mouth, and left lip of the calf consistent with a vessel strike. These injuries may impact this calf’s ability to nurse successfully.
After reviewing this case, NOAA Fisheries biologists made a preliminary determination that it meets the criteria of a “serious injury.” This means the whale is likely to die as a result. We will continue to work with authorized responders to monitor this calf and further document its injuries. This is the 35th “serious injury” case in the ongoing Unusual Mortality Event impacting North Atlantic right whales. The UME began in 2017 and has documented 122 individuals so far, including this calf: 36 dead, 35 seriously injured, and 51 otherwise sick or injured whales.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and New England Aquarium used the videos collected by the public to identify the whales as Juno (#1612) and her calf. Juno was the first documented right whale mom of the season, and was initially seen with her calf on November 28, 2023, off Georgetown, South Carolina. The mom and calf were last seen prior to the injury on December 9, 2023, off Amelia Island, Florida. It is unknown at this time if Juno is also injured. Mother-calf pairs are at heightened risk for vessel strikes because they spend nearly all their time at or close to the water surface, but are difficult to see.
NOAA is asking anyone with information regarding the calf's injuries and additional sightings to contact (877) WHALE-HELP (877-942-5343). The vessel that struck the animal could have damage.
Please report any sighting of right whales or any dead, injured, or entangled whales. If safe, and from the legally required 500-yard distance, please take photos or video and note the GPS coordinates to share with biologists.
Dead Juvenile Female Right Whale Off Savannah, Georgia (Calf of #4340)
February 16, 2024
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Experts completed a necropsy of the juvenile female North Atlantic right whale on February 15, 2024. They found evidence of blunt force trauma including fractures of the skull. The injuries are consistent with a vessel strike prior to death. Additional histological and diagnostic testing of samples is pending. We will share more information as it is available. This case is an active NOAA Office of Law Enforcement investigation.
The necropsy examination was conducted by partners including:
- University of North Carolina, Wilmington
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Blue World Research Institute
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- University of Florida
- Savannah State University
- Low Country Marine Mammal Stranding Network
- Tybee Island Public Works, Police Department, and Fire and Rescue
- Tybee Island Marine Science Center
- Sea Tow
- United States Coast Guard
- NOAA Office of Law Enforcement
February 15, 2024
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On February 13, 2024, NOAA Fisheries was notified of a dead whale floating offshore of Savannah, Georgia. The whale is a juvenile female. She is the offspring of Pilgrim (North Atlantic right whale #4340) and was first documented in December 2022.
It was identified after an aerial survey team from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute searched and found the carcass about 20 miles off Tybee Island, Georgia, on February 14. This allowed a team from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to respond, attach a satellite tag, and collect photos and samples to help identify the whale. Sharks have heavily scavenged the whale carcass.
NOAA Fisheries and our partners will review logistical options and determine whether a tow to shore or necropsy is possible given the condition of the whale and weather. This is the 38th mortality in the ongoing Unusual Mortality Event.
Right Whale #5120 Found Dead Near Martha's Vineyard
February 14, 2024: Rope Removed from North Atlantic Right Whale #5120 Determined to be from Maine
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Based upon our analysis of the gear, including the purple markings on the rope recovered from North Atlantic right whale #5120, NOAA Fisheries has concluded that the rope is consistent with the rope used in Maine state water trap/pot buoy lines. We have been in consultation with our New England state resource management partners, and they have viewed the gear.
As of today the full necropsy results are still pending. The NOAA Office of Law Enforcement investigation remains open.
February 2, 2024: Preliminary Necropsy Results Show Chronic Entanglement
The necropsy of North Atlantic right whale #5120 was completed on February 1, 2024. From the necropsy, experts confirmed a chronic entanglement, with rope deeply embedded in the tail, and thin body condition. The necropsy showed no evidence of blunt force trauma. Cause of death is pending further histological and diagnostic testing of collected samples, which can take weeks to complete. We will share more information as soon as it has been confirmed.
February 2, 2024: Right Whale with Rope Embedded in Tail Stock Identified as #5120
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This week, scientists at the New England Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life reviewed several images of the dead North Atlantic right whale and made a match in the right whale catalog to whale #5120. Experts identified #5120 based on images showing clear matching features, such as callosity patterns and markings. This right whale female, the only known calf of Squilla (#3720), was born during the 2021 calving season.
This same whale was added as a serious injury case to the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event on August 31, 2022, after the first sighting of a serious entanglement. It will now be moved to the mortality total for dead animals documented in the UME. The total number of animals in the UME remains at 122 with 37 dead, 34 seriously injured, and 51 in otherwise poor health.
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024, Stranding Network partners and collaborators, recovered the carcass of the whale. The carcass was relocated to a different location that allowed better access to heavy equipment and resources to conduct a necropsy (animal autopsy). A necropsy examination took place on February 1, 2024. It was led by large whale experts at International Fund for Animal Welfare, with the assistance of more than 20 biologists from:
- Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah)
- Atlantic Marine Conservation Society
- Whale Dolphin Conservation
- New England Aquarium
- Center for Coastal Studies
- Marine Mammals of Maine
- Virginia Aquarium
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative
Information gathered through the necropsy included measurements and photographs, along with biological samples collected to learn more about the whale’s physiology. It further documented the wounds and additional factors that may have contributed to the animal’s death. Preliminary findings may be available soon, but further histological and diagnostic testing of collected samples can take weeks to complete. We will share updated information as soon as it has been confirmed.
A Fisheries and Oceans Canada aerial team first observed #5120 entangled on August 20, 2022, about 48 miles east of Shippagan, New Brunswick. She had multiple wraps of line around her tail and flukes, two small buoys at the flukes, and an estimated 200 feet of line trailing behind her. The entanglement was deemed serious because—at only 1 year old—the rope encircling her tail stock would likely tighten as she grew.
In January 2023 she was seen entangled in Cape Cod Bay by the Center for Coastal Studies aerial survey team. Their Marine Animal Entanglement Response team attempted to disentangle her multiple times, but had little success. There was no trailing gear to work with, and there were unfavorable conditions for small boat operations, including inclement weather and distance from shore.
Whale #5120 was last seen in June 2023 by Northeast Fisheries Science Center aerial observers, 60 miles northeast of Shippagan, New Brunswick. She was feeding with other whales. Her overall condition had declined and the wounds from the wraps of rope at the peduncle appeared to be more severe. No trailing line or buoys were seen.
January 30, 2024
On January 28, state law enforcement officials collected some of the rope that was entangled around, and embedded in, the whale’s tail. They turned it over to NOAA’s Office Law Enforcement. The rope will now be examined by gear experts. Authorized members of the National Marine Mammal Stranding Response Network are planning to perform a necropsy (an animal autopsy) to investigate the cause of death as logistics allow.
January 28, 2024
On the afternoon of January 28, 2024, NOAA Fisheries was notified of a deceased female North Atlantic right whale near Joseph Sylvia State Beach on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. NOAA Fisheries and the International Fund for Animal Welfare—an organization that responds to stranded marine mammals on Cape Cod and the South Coast of Massachusetts—will work closely with the Massachusetts Environmental Police and local responders on next steps, including:
- Edgartown Police
- Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah)
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
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IFAW and the Tribe were able to secure the whale, and a necropsy will be performed when weather conditions become more favorable. Preliminary observations indicate the presence of rope entangled near the whale’s tail (around the peduncle). Due to the animal’s position, the whale cannot be identified at this time, but it is estimated to be a juvenile due to its size. We will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.
North Atlantic right whales are approaching extinction with approximately 360 individuals remaining, including fewer than 70 reproductively active females. There is an ongoing Unusual Mortality Event for North Atlantic right whales, and this whale is the 37th documented mortality. Primary threats to the species are entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes. Climate change is also affecting every aspect of their survival. The North Atlantic Right Whale Road to Recovery describes NOAA Fisheries' comprehensive efforts to address threats to the species and monitor recovery progress.
Report any sightings of injured or stranded whales (dead or alive) and maintain a 150-foot distance. The Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline can be reached at (866) 755-6622 and the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (877) WHALE-HELP (877-942-5343).
Half Note (#1301) and her 2024 Calf
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January 23, 2024
On January 14, 2024, aerial and vessel survey teams observed North Atlantic right whale Half Note (#1301) without her calf. This mom and her eighth known calf were seen together only once, on January 11, 2024—the calf looked thin and has not been seen since. Unfortunately, this outcome was not unexpected; Half Note has lost six of her seven previously documented calves, including her 2022 calf. None of the six lost calves have been recovered or observed dead, and we cannot say for certain the cause of their loss.
We will continue to work with authorized responders to monitor right whales in the Southeast United States as weather allows.
Every mom and calf is critical to the recovery of this endangered species.
North Atlantic Right Whale Calf of #3780
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January 12, 2024
On January 5, North Atlantic right whale #3780, a first-time mom, was spotted via aerial survey without her calf. Mom and calf were last seen together on December 31, 2023. Since young right whale calves are nutritionally dependent on their mothers, we are concerned about the status of this calf.
We will continue to work with authorized responders to monitor right whales in the Southeast United States as weather allows.
Every mom and calf is critical to the recovery of this endangered species.
Documented Health Decline of Specs (#2930)
On June 12, 2023, an adult male North Atlantic right whale known as “Specs” (#2930) was observed in the Gulf of St. Lawrence by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in a significant health decline. At the time of sighting, there was no gear visible. However, subsequent photo analysis showed injuries consistent with constricting gear. Specs—first sighted in 1999—was most recently documented gear-free and without injury on August 21, 2021, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. After reviewing the new photo documentation, he is being added to the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event as a “Serious Injury” case. This designation signifies Specs is likely to die from this injury.
Entanglement Response Mounted for Previously Entangled Right Whale, #4545
April 3, 2023
On March 29, 2023, the Center for Coastal Studies documented an entangled North Atlantic right whale in Cape Cod Bay. Response teams identified the whale as #4545, a known entangled whale that was last seen in February with thick line exiting her mouth. Since that last sighting, the entanglement has become more complex and life threatening. The entanglement now consists of at least three lines wrapped around her body and cutting into her skin with several body lengths of line trailing behind.
Authorized and trained responders from the Center for Coastal Studies removed some of the trailing gear, but the body wraps remain. Unfortunately tight, constricting, and embedded lines are some of the most difficult to remove. The response team attached a telemetry buoy to the remaining entangling gear to more easily locate and track the whale. This will provide more opportunities to remove the remaining gear as weather conditions and the whale’s location permit. NOAA Fisheries will examine the removed rope to determine its origin, if possible.
Right whale #4545 was previously included in the ongoing Unusual Mortality Event as a morbidity (sublethal injury or illness) case. On review of this new documentation, #4545 will now be considered a serious injury case. This new designation means, based on past similar incidents without further intervention, she is likely to die from her injuries. NOAA Fisheries will continue to work with authorized responders and trained experts to resight the whale and will further document and monitor her injuries. Please let these qualified experts respond and report any sightings of entangled whales to our Northeast and Mid-Atlantic 24-hour stranding hotline at (866) 755-6622 or VHF Channel 16.
Nimbus (#3812) is Sighted Gear Free
March 15, 2023
On March 10, 2023, a New England Aquarium aerial survey team saw North Atlantic right whale Nimbus (#3812) swimming in a large group of right whales south of Martha’s Vineyard. This was the first sighting of Nimbus since entanglement response teams partially disentangled him off the Georgia coast in January 2023. Nimbus appears to have shed the remainder of the line trailing from his mouth, and is now fully gear free. At this time, the full extent to which this entanglement impacted Nimbus’ health remains unclear. We and our partners will continue to monitor and document him.
While this is good news for Nimbus, entanglement response and disentanglement is not always possible for other whales. North Atlantic right whales remain vulnerable to entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes.
New Dead Right Whale, #3343, Documented near Virginia Beach, Virginia
February 17, 2023
On February 12, 2023, the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center Stranding Response Program was alerted to a dead North Atlantic right whale in the surf on Virginia Beach. The New England Aquarium identified the whale as right whale #3343, a 20-year-old male. His last confirmed sighting was on December 26, 2022 off the coast of Georgia.
The Virginia Aquarium team led a necropsy examination on February 14, with support from partners including:
- Barco Marine Consulting
- University of North Carolina, Wilmington
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Blue World Research Institute
- North Carolina State University
- International Fund for Animal Welfare
- Whale and Dolphin Conservation
- City of Virginia Beach
- Virginia Marine Resources Commission
- New England Aquarium
- NOAA Office of Law Enforcement
- NOAA Fisheries
Experts determined right whale #3343 suffered a catastrophic blunt force traumatic injury, which impacted a large portion of the spinal column. The injuries are consistent with a vessel strike. They included multiple spinal fractures and separations that would have resulted in death shortly after the injury. There was no obvious external evidence of the trauma. The whale was 43 feet long, in normal to thin nutritional condition, and there was no evidence of recent entanglement.
Vessel strikes continue to occur all along the U.S. coast, from the Gulf of Maine to Florida, and are one of the leading causes of the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event. Right whale #3343 is the 97th right whale documented in the UME, and the 36th mortality.
Entangled Female North Atlantic Right Whale #4545
February 17, 2023
On February 9, 2023, an aerial survey team from the Northeast Fisheries Science Center saw an entangled right whale offshore south of Massachusetts. There was rope coming out of the right side of the mouth and trailing several body lengths with no additional attachment points. After reviewing this new entanglement case, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that it meets the Unusual Mortality Event criteria as a “morbidity” case.
The New England Aquarium identified the whale as #4545 in the North Atlantic Right Whale Catalog. She is an 8-year-old female whose last known pre-entanglement sighting was in July 2022 in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada.
Entanglement response teams did not mount a response at the initial sighting because it was too late in the day and the whale was too far from shore to reach it before sunset. However, as conditions permit, NOAA Fisheries will work with authorized responders and trained experts to find her again. We will further document the entanglement, and may respond, if it is logistically feasible.
Right whale #4545 is the 96th right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event, and the 39th morbidity case.
Entanglement Response Mounted for Newly Entangled Right Whale, Argo (#1218)
February 6, 2023
On January 27, 2023, the North Carolina aerial survey team sighted an entangled North Atlantic right whale approximately 10 miles east of Surf City, North Carolina. New England Aquarium matched images to an adult male (#1218), named Argo. He was first cataloged in 1981, which makes him at least 42 years old. His last known pre-entanglement sighting was off Massachusetts in May 2022.
Entangling gear was wrapped tightly around the whale’s tail and flukes, and the whale appeared to be dragging something heavy under its tail. The entanglement was severe enough that the whale was mostly swimming with its pectoral fins instead of its tail. Authorized and trained responders from Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, and Duke University Marine Lab responded. Over 3 days, they worked to document, attach a satellite tag to the trailing gear, and finally remove the entanglement from the whale’s tail and flukes. Staff from NOAA Fisheries, Center for Coastal Studies, and New England Aquarium provided offsite assistance. The response team was also able to recover all of the gear removed from the whale. This included approximately 157 feet of line and the two wire mesh traps that were dragging behind the whale. NOAA Fisheries and our partners, including the Department of Oceans and Fisheries Canada, studied the recovered gear and determined the gear originated from Canadian Lobster Fishing Area 33 off the southern coast of Nova Scotia.
Argo is being added to the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event. He is the 95th right whale in the UME. Scientists are still assessing whether this case is a serious injury or a morbidity case.
NOAA Fisheries thanks all of our authorized and trained entanglement response partners for their tremendous effort on this case. This is the first disentanglement of a North Atlantic right whale in North Carolina waters.
Entanglement Response Mounted for Nimbus (#3812), Newly Entangled Right Whale
January 26, 2023
On January 20, 2023, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission whale survey aircraft sighted an entangled North Atlantic right whale 13 miles east of Jekyll Island, Georgia. Authorized responders and trained experts from multiple agencies worked from boats with specialized tools to remove approximately 375 feet of rope that was passing through the whale’s mouth and dragging hundreds of feet behind its flukes. After this entanglement response, only a short segment of rope remained in the whale’s mouth. Based on similar incidents, responders are optimistic the remaining rope will dislodge on its own. NOAA Fisheries will examine the removed rope to determine its origin, if possible.
Photographs of the whale were matched to a 15-year-old adult male known as #3812 in the North Atlantic Right Whale Catalog and nicknamed “Nimbus.” His last known pre-entanglement sighting was August 8, 2022 in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Canada. Fishing gear entanglement is one of the leading causes of North Atlantic right whale mortality and injury. Significantly reducing entanglement risk is critical to the species’ recovery.
Nimbus was first added to the UME as the 81st individual overall and the 26th morbidity (injured/ill) case due to lesions around his mouth first documented in July 2019 in Canada. Those injuries were from an unknown source and not consistent with entanglement. His new entanglement injuries are more severe than the previous ones, so he will now be considered an entanglement case under the morbidity category.
Georgia Department of Natural Resources led the disentanglement response, with assistance from:
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute
- NOAA Fisheries Northeast Fisheries Science Center
- Song of the Whale
Staff from NOAA Fisheries, the Center for Coastal Studies, and the New England Aquarium provided offsite assistance.
While many people empathize with the animals and want to help, untrained members of the public should not attempt to free entangled whales. The best way that you can help is by reporting sightings of entangled whales to the local entanglement response network. Then, stand by until response team members arrive, and provide any photos or videos to NOAA Fisheries.
Resighted: Entangled North Atlantic Right Whale in Cape Cod Bay, #5120 (2021 Calf of #3720)
January 24, 2023
On January 18, 2023, a Center for Coastal Studies aerial survey team located an entangled North Atlantic right whale in Cape Cod Bay, approximately 5 miles south of Provincetown, Massachusetts. The New England Aquarium identified the whale as the 2021 calf of the adult female named Squilla (#3720). This 2-year old whale was first documented as entangled in August 2022 off the coast of New Brunswick, Canada. It was added as the 54th individual to the ongoing Unusual Mortality Event as a serious injury case.
After this resighting, a response team on the water worked with the aerial team to locate and document the entangled whale. However, the whale was feeding alongside 15–20 other right whales and was difficult to follow. Challenging weather conditions made photo documentation and assessment of the entanglement configuration difficult so a disentanglement attempt was not possible that day. A Center for Coastal Studies aerial survey team resighted the whale on January 22, 2023 in Cape Cod Bay, but again the conditions prevented a response.
This juvenile whale continues to have a constricting wrap around its tail and flukes. As conditions permit, NOAA Fisheries will work with authorized responders and trained experts to resight the whale. We will further document the entanglement, and determine if a response will be possible.
Entangled North Atlantic Right Whale (#4904) off North Carolina
January 12, 2023
On January 8, 2023, an aerial survey team from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium sighted a heavily entangled right whale approximately 20 miles east of Rodanthe, North Carolina. There were several wraps of line around the mouth and tail, with additional line trailing behind the whale. After reviewing documentation of this new entanglement case, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that it meets the criteria of a “serious injury.” This means the whale is likely to die from this injury.
Scientists with the New England Aquarium identified the whale as right whale #4904, a 4-year-old juvenile female. The Aquarium manages the North Atlantic Right Whale Catalog to track the identification and sighting history of each right whale. This entangled whale is the daughter of right whale #1204, an adult female named “Spindle,” who was recently seen with a new calf off St. Catherines Island, Georgia.
The last known sighting of right whale #4904 was in May 2022 in Massachusetts Bay, and she was not entangled at that point. NOAA Fisheries and our partners reviewed initial images from January 8. They show her to have numerous wounds across her body and whale lice on her head.
Entanglement response teams did not mount a response at the initial sighting because it was too late in the day and the whale was too far from shore. However, as conditions permit, NOAA Fisheries will work with authorized responders and trained experts to resight her. We will further document the entanglement, and determine if an entanglement response will be possible.
Right whale #4904 is the 94th right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event, and the 22nd serious injury case. This UME includes dead, seriously injured, and sublethally injured or ill whales. The whales in the UME represent more than 20 percent of the population, which is a significant impact on this endangered species where deaths are outpacing births. Researchers estimate there are fewer than 70 reproductively active females remaining. If you encounter a whale that may be entangled, please do not intervene and instead call the experts for the whale’s sake as well as yours.
New Dead Right Whale Calf Documented Under Pier in North Carolina
January 20, 2023 (Update)
On January 8, 2023, a stranding response team conducted a necropsy (animal autopsy) of the male right whale calf. It had been found dead under a pier near Morehead City, North Carolina. The necropsy did not find any evidence of entanglement or vessel strike. Initial findings suggest the calf was only a day or two old when it died. Multiple samples were collected in order to attempt to identify the calf’s mother through genetic analysis. They will be compared to samples taken from known right whale mothers to possibly determine its maternal lineage. Tissue analyses and other multiple tests are being conducted and results are pending.
The team included members from:
- North Carolina State University Center for Marine Sciences and Technology
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
- North Carolina Maritime Museum/Bonehenge Whale Center
- North Carolina Aquariums
- Fort Macon State Park
- Duke University Marine Lab
- Marine Mammal Commission
January 9, 2023
On January 7, 2023, a male North Atlantic right whale calf was documented dead near Morehead City, North Carolina. Response teams with key support from the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries Marine Patrol recovered the carcass, and a multi-organization team conducted a necropsy the following day.
This calf was seen alive on January 3, 2023. A member of the public reported to the Southeast Regional Stranding Network that a lone North Atlantic right whale calf was swimming close to shore inside of the Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina. An aerial survey team from Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute responded, funded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. On-water responders from the North Carolina Maritime Museum also quickly mobilized and were able to locate the calf. The aerial survey team widened their search in the hopes of locating and identifying an adult whale that could be the potential mother. However, no other right whales were found in the area.
Based on images and video, experts estimated the male calf to be no more than a couple of weeks old. They suggested the animal appeared to be underweight and in relatively poor health. Newborn calves cannot survive long without their mothers. There are very few intervention options available to the stranding network given the size of the animals and their specialized needs.
Later that day, another video from the public showed the calf swimming under the dock at Morehead City Port. Biologists and veterinarians from the Duke University Marine Lab, North Carolina State University, and the North Carolina Maritime Museum responded on boats to further assess the situation. But, the whale was not seen that day. The carcass of the calf was found under the pier on January 7.
At this point, we do not know who the calf’s mother is or her condition. Scientists maintain an extensive database and photo-identification catalog of all North Atlantic right whales. We will use this catalog and a genetic sample from the calf to determine its relatives.
This calf will be added as the 93rd whale to the ongoing Unusual Mortality Event that the species has experienced since 2017.
Report Marine Life in Distress
This situation is a real life example of how the public can help us monitor and protect North Atlantic right whales. The first sightings of this whale were reported to the stranding network by a member of the public. The best way you can help is by reporting stranded or injured marine mammals to your local stranding network. If you see a right whale or any marine mammal in trouble, such as this lone calf, please give the animal space and contact trained responders at 877) WHALE-HELP. If it is safe, please take photos and video to share with responders. It is against federal law to approach within 500 yards (five football fields) of an endangered North Atlantic right whale.
#4501: A Newly Entangled Right Whale
October 14, 2022
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In late August, Fisheries and Oceans Canada observed an entangled North Atlantic right whale #4501. The subadult male whale was seen approximately 50 nautical miles east of Shippagan, New Brunswick, Canada. The most recent previous sighting of the whale was on August 6, 2022, in the same area; it was not entangled then. After reviewing documentation of this new entanglement, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that the entanglement has resulted in a “serious injury.” This indicates the whale is likely to die from this injury.
#4501 is the 21st seriously injured and 91st right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event. This UME includes dead, seriously injured, and sublethally injured or ill whales.
NOAA Fisheries and our partners will continue to search for the whale and monitor it. Experts will attempt to disentangle the whale as weather and safety conditions allow.
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Snow Cone (#3560) Entangled in New Fishing Gear
October 11, 2022
An aerial survey team from the New England Aquarium observed North Atlantic right whale “Snow Cone” (#3560) on September 21, 2022, south of Nantucket, Massachusetts. Snow Cone was seen entangled with new fishing gear wrapped around her tailstock, while still carrying old gear entangled around her head from March 2021.
The new entanglement is at least the fifth entanglement researchers have documented with Snow Cone. She is in extremely poor health as evidenced by the presence of whale lice, her slow movements, and her visible injuries. Since her last sighting in Cape Cod in May 2022, her condition has noticeably worsened. In May, she was seen without her calf, who was born around early December 2021. The calf has not been seen since April 2022 and may have weaned or not survived.
Large whale entanglement responders from the Center for Coastal Studies were notified of the sighting and new entanglement. However, no response was possible given the late time of day and Snow Cone’s distance from shore. Snow Cone has not been seen since, but entanglement response teams remain on standby if she is seen again and weather conditions permit a disentanglement effort.
There is an ongoing North Atlantic Right Whale Unusual Mortality Event, which currently includes both dead and seriously injured whales. Snow Cone was added to the UME in March 2021. The UME has documented at least 54 whales to date since 2017.
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#5120 (“2021 Calf of #3720”): A Newly Entangled Yearling Right Whale
August 31, 2022
In late August, Fisheries and Oceans Canada observed an entangled yearling North Atlantic right whale known as “2021 Calf of #3720.” It has this name because it was born in 2021 and its mother is the adult female right whale known as #3720. The yearling was seen approximately 48 nautical miles east off the coast of New Brunswick, Canada, and is approximately 1.5 years old. The most recent previous sighting of the whale was on May 1, 2022, in the Great South Channel; it was not entangled then.
After reviewing photographs of this new entanglement, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that it has resulted in a “serious injury.” This indicates the whale is likely to die from this injury. As the yearling grows, the entanglement is likely to cause increasing harm and eventual death as it constricts the tail and other areas of the whale’s body.
“2021 Calf of #3720” is the 54th right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event. This UME includes both dead and seriously injured whales.
NOAA Fisheries and our partners will continue to search for the yearling and monitor it. Experts will attempt to disentangle the whale as weather and safety conditions allow.
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Meridian (#1403): A Newly Entangled Right Whale
August 5, 2022
In late June, Fisheries and Oceans Canada observed North Atlantic right whale #1403, also known as “Meridian.” He was seen off the coast of Miscou Island, New Brunswick, Canada with an entanglement. Meridian is a 38-year-old adult male. The last time he was observed, in Massachusetts Bay in March 2022, he was not entangled in any fishing gear.
Meridian has had four prior entanglements that were resolved—three minor (in 1997, 2016, 2018) and one severe (in 2006), which involved rope embedded in and around the upper jaw. After reviewing photographs of this new entanglement, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that the current entanglement has resulted in a serious injury. This determination indicates he is likely to die from this injury.
Meridian is the 52nd right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event, which currently includes both dead and seriously injured whales.
Meridian has been seen entangled in fishing gear in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence near Miscou Island, Canada. Photo credit: Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Sundog (#3823): A Newly Entangled Right Whale
July 15, 2022
In May, Fisheries and Oceans Canada sighted North Atlantic right whale #3823, also known as “Sundog,” off the coast of Gaspe, Quebec, Canada with a mouth entanglement. Sundog is a 14-year-old adult female. The last time she was observed, in March 2022, she was not entangled in any fishing gear.
Sundog was previously entangled in 2016, but was partially disentangled by Center for Coastal Studies and later sighted gear-free. In 2018, a Center for Coastal Studies aerial survey documented her with extensive new injuries on her head, mouth, and tail consistent with an entanglement, although no gear was present.
After reviewing photographs of this new entanglement, NOAA Fisheries biologists have made a preliminary determination that the current entanglement has resulted in a serious injury. This indicates she is likely to die from this injury.
Sundog is the 51st right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event, which includes both dead and seriously injured whales.
NOAA Fisheries and our partners will continue to monitor Sundog.
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Snow Cone (#3560) and Her Calf Seen Again Near Massachusetts in April
May 23, 2022
The entangled North Atlantic right whale Snow Cone (#3560) and her calf successfully navigated the journey of more than 1,000 miles from the southeast calving grounds. They were re-sighted off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts via aerial survey at the end of April.
Her overall condition and entanglement seems similar to what was observed at her last sighting in February, though she is now thinner and the fishing rope wound is more apparent. Snow Cone’s calf appears to be in good condition.
Our partners at the Center for Coastal Studies attempted vessel responses as weather permitted, but were unable to remove more gear. This situation is extremely difficult given the presence of her calf and that the embedded and entangled rope involves the mouth and baleen and is near her eye.
NOAA Fisheries and our partners will continue to monitor Snow Cone and her calf. Remember to give right whales space. If you see Snow Cone and her calf or any other right whale, move at least 500 yards away—it’s safest for you and the whales, and it’s the law.
Snow Cone is the 50th right whale documented in the ongoing North Atlantic right whale Unusual Mortality Event, which includes both dead and seriously injured whales. The UME was declared in 2017.
This intrepid mom and her calf were last sighted on April 29. If you spot them, please call the Northeast Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding and Entanglement Hotline at (866) 755-NOAA ((866) 755-6622).
Snow Cone and her calf were first sighted on December 2, 2021 and have been spotted multiple times since then.
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Snow Cone (#3560): Entangled Right Whale Mother and Newborn Calf
February 18, 2022
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The entangled North Atlantic right whale #3560, also known as “Snow Cone,'' gave birth to her calf at the end of 2021. Snow Cone and her calf have been sighted twice in February 2022. The first sighting, on February 12, was 30 miles south of Savannah, Georgia. Only five days later, Snow Cone and her calf were seen 135 miles south, near Daytona Beach, Florida!
Learn more about Snow Cone and her calf, and how we and our partners are monitoring their situation
Half Note (#1301) and Her 2022 Calf
February 1, 2022
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On January 18, 2022, right whale #1301, also known as “Half Note,” and her newborn calf were first sighted off Sea Island, Georgia. Experts noted the calf was very thin and had whale lice on its flukes, which often indicate poor health.
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More recent sightings of Half Note and her calf documented shark bites and damaged tissue on the calf’s tail and flukes. NOAA Fisheries and our partners collected additional images and samples on January 31, including small skin and blubber biopsies from both mother and calf. These will help us better understand potential causes of the calf’s poor body condition and Half Note’s poor rate of reproductive success. Unfortunately, there are no rescue or other intervention options for rehabilitation or treatment of a large whale calf in this condition. We are trying to learn what we can to improve prospects for Half Note and her calf, and other right whales in the future.
How Can You Help
Give Right Whales Space–It’s the Law
- Remain 500 yards away—about 1/4 mile (about 1 football field). These regulations apply to vessels and aircrafts (including drones) and to people using other watercrafts, such as surfboards, kayaks, and jet skis.
- Any vessel finding itself within 500 yards of a right whale must depart immediately at a safe, slow speed
- When encountering marine mammals, slow down, operate at no-wake speed. Put your engine in neutral when whales approach to pass.
- Avoid approaching whales, dolphins, and porpoises especially when calves are present. Never put your watercraft between a mother and calf.
Report Stranded or Injured Whales
Do not approach injured or dead marine animals, including whales. The most important step you can take to assist professional responders and scientists is to immediately report any sightings of injured, stranded, or dead whales. In the United States, make a report by calling the Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (866) 755-6622 or the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (877) 433-8299. In Canada, call the Marine Animal Response Society at (866) 567-6277 or the Quebec Marine Mammal Emergency Response Network at (877) 722-5346. You can also contact the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards on VHF Channel 16.