The clock is ticking for North Atlantic right whales: You can help!
by Sailors for the Sea 28 Dec 2021 17:28 UTC
The clock is ticking for North Atlantic right whales © Sailors for the Sea
Earlier this month, a 39-year-old North Atlantic right whale named Slalom was spotted off the coast of South Carolina with a new calf - her sixth, and first in 11 years. It's encouraging, but also brings to light the incredible challenges this new calf will face.
Throughout her life, Slalom has been entangled in fishing gear at least six times; her offspring and grand-offspring are documented to have been involved in 17 entanglements and two ship strikes - the two leading causes of death for these critically endangered whales, both of which are preventable.
The situation facing North Atlantic right whales is dire. Only around 336 individuals remain, a nearly 10% drop in population since last year's estimate. Every year they are slipping closer to extinction.
Click here to donate to save these whales.
We know what to do...
We're calling on the U.S and Canadian governments to take urgent action to protect these iconic whales including:
- Implement effective dynamic, real-time management area to remove threats to North Atlantic right whales when they are present.
- Modify fishing gear and practices to reduce the likelihood and severity of entanglements through the development of ropeless gear.
- Implement and enforce mandatory speed restrictions for vessels of all sizes that can harm whales in areas where North Atlantic right whales are expected or present.
Slalom and whales like her need your help. Their calves deserve a chance. The situation is dire, but still we have hope, because of the progress that we are making with your support. As sailors and boaters, we see first-hand the magic of ocean life. With your help, we can preserve that magic for future generations.
Make a year-end, tax-deductible gift right now to power our campaigns to save North Atlantic right whales from extinction and protect our oceans
With your gift of $25 or more, we'll send you our exclusive Sailors for the Sea Powered by Oceana reusable bag.
Click here to make a donation today.
The clock is ticking, but with your help, saving these whales is within our grasp.