Two North Atlantic right whales, a critically endangered species, have been seen entangled in fishing gear off the coast of Massachusetts.
With fewer than 400 of these whales remaining, the sighting is raising serious concerns among conservationists.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the whales—an adult and a juvenile—were observed southeast of Nantucket. Biologists warn that at least one of the animals is unlikely to survive.
Earlier this year, a right whale washed ashore on Martha’s Vineyard, and investigators linked its death to Maine fishing gear.
This incident has intensified ongoing debates between lobstermen and Conservation groups. Lobstermen have pushed back against new regulations, maintaining that Maine lobster gear had not previously been confirmed to cause a right whale fatality.
The discovery of the entangled whales highlights the continued threat to the species and the importance of addressing fishing practices that put them at risk.
This article by Trinity Sparke was first published by One Green Planet on 1 January 2025. Image Credit :lego 19861111/Shuttersetock.
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