The North Atlantic right whale is a critically endangered species with fewer than 400 individuals remaining. On December 9, two of these whales were found entangled in fishing gear off the coast of Massachusetts, around 50 miles southeast of Nantucket. This sighting occurred during an aerial survey by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The entanglement poses a significant risk to the whales, with one juvenile likely to die from its injuries. The other whale, an adult female, has suffered a non-lethal injury. These entanglements highlight the vulnerability of the species, which faces threats from both fishing gear and ship collisions.

The recent sighting has sparked concern among environmentalists and scientists. While a recent study shows a small 4% increase in the whale population since 2020, experts warn that the species is still at great risk of extinction. The slow reproduction rate and the effects of climate change on their food sources add to the challenges they face. Scientists stress the need for stronger protections to reduce the impact of commercial fishing and shipping. Experts emphasize the importance of monitoring entanglements and developing new, innovative solutions to ensure the survival of these whales.