A recent research flight off the coast of New England made a remarkable discovery - a large gathering of whales, including an unusually high number of an endangered species. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported 161 sightings of seven different whale species on May 25 in the waters south of Martha's Vineyard and southeast of Nantucket.
The sightings were particularly notable for the presence of 93 sei whales, marking one of the highest concentrations of this rare species observed during a single flight. The diverse group of whales also included two orcas, a rare sight in the region, with one of them spotted carrying a tuna in its mouth.
Other species sighted during the research flight included endangered North Atlantic right whales, as well as humpback, fin, minke, and sperm whales. While the total number of individual whales sighted may be lower than 161 due to potential repeat sightings, observers confirmed the presence of a significant number of whales in the area.
The North Atlantic right whale, with a population of less than 360 individuals, was spotted three times during the flight. This species has been the focus of proposed regulations aimed at protecting it from extinction, particularly from threats such as fishing gear entanglement and ship collisions.
The area where the whale congregation was observed is considered crucial habitat for North Atlantic right whales and other large whale species throughout the year. Conservation groups like Oceana have raised concerns about the need for stringent regulations to safeguard these whales from potential dangers posed by maritime activities.
Oceana emphasized the risks of vessel strikes and entanglements, which are identified as the primary causes of mortality for large whales in the U.S. Atlantic region. The organization stressed the urgency of implementing measures to mitigate these threats and ensure the long-term survival of these majestic marine mammals.
