Above image: A North Atlantic right whale, entangled in fishing rope, next to her newborn, on December 2, 2021, near Cumberland Island, Georgia. Georgia Department of Natural Resources/NOAA Permit #20556

The North Atlantic Right Whale (NARW) faces a dire plight, with its population dwindling to critically low levels primarily due to human activities. Entanglement in fishing gear, vessel strikes, and habitat degradation have all taken a toll on this majestic species. With only 360 individuals remaining, including fewer than 70 reproductively active females, the North Atlantic Right Whale is one of the most endangered large whale species in the world.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures. Measures such as implementing speed restrictions in shipping lanes, modifying fishing gear to reduce entanglement risk, and establishing marine protected areas aim to mitigate the threats facing the North Atlantic Right Whale, but we need to do more, faster. The road to recovery is long and challenging, requiring continued dedication and collaboration among governments, scientists, industries, and the public to ensure the survival of this iconic species for generations to come.