Right Whales Begin Migration to Florida, Georgia

Boaters who frequent Atlantic waters between Florida and Georgia are being asked to provide a wide berth for right whales as they make their difficult journey south for the winter.

Considered “one of the most endangered large whales in the world,” these whales are facing “a high likelihood of extinction largely due to human activities,” the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported on its website.

That agency issued a warning about the annual migration from the North Atlantic to warmer waters on its Facebook page Monday morning.

“What few North Atlantic right whales the world has are migrating right now from northern waters to areas off the Florida-Georgia coast to give birth to and nurse their calves,” the agency wrote. “As far as we know, this is the only area where one of the most endangered species in the world – their estimated population is only 500 individuals – come to calve.”

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The newborn whales can measure up to 15 feet and may weigh as much as a ton. Although they’re big, the creatures are weaned until the end of their first year.

The journey to the warmer waters of Georgia and Florida is a particularly perilous one, FWC pointed out.

These whales have no dorsal fins, which makes them “difficult to spot, making their journey here extra dangerous.”

Anyone who does spot one of these giants is asked to give them lots of room and report the sighting by calling 1-877-WHALE HELP.

For more information about right whales, visit FWC online.

Photos courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission