Two endangered North Atlantic right whales were spotted off the coast of Maryland this month, marking a rare sighting in one of the busiest shipping corridors in the U.S.
The sighting has raised concerns among officials because the whales were spotted in a busy shipping corridor, increasing the risk of a potentially deadly vessel strike.
The critically endangered whales are also not typically found this far south during this time of year.
There are fewer than 400 North Atlantic right whales remaining, making every sighting significant.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), North Atlantic right whales are especially vulnerable to vessel collisions because they spend much of their time near the ocean’s surface.
NOAA Fisheries said vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglement are the leading threats to the species, with about 86% of right whales becoming entangled at least once in their lifetime.
The whales can also be difficult for boaters to spot because of their dark-colored skin and lack of a dorsal fin. Poor weather conditions, rough seas, murky water, and low visibility contribute to this.
Because of these risks, officials said seeing right whales in a busy shipping corridor is a major concern.
According to the New England Aquarium, the North Atlantic right whale is one of the rarest whale species in the world. Commercial whaling nearly drove the species to extinction in the late 1800s.
This led to the North Atlantic right whale being listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act since 1970.
NOAA’s latest population estimate puts the species at approximately 380 whales, an increase of about 20 individuals since 2020.
While the population has shown signs of growth for three consecutive years, scientists remain cautious as the whales continue to face human-caused injuries and deaths.
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The whales are typically found along the coast of New England and Canada, but during the fall migration season, they can travel as far south as South Carolina, Georgia, and northeastern Florida.
However, experts say it is unusual to see them this far south during this time of year.
Officials are now reminding boaters and the public to report any North Atlantic right whale sightings.
Sightings from Maine to Virginia can be reported by calling (866) 755-6622.
