Whale Of A Comeback? More Marine Mammals Spotted Off Cape Cod

CAPE COD, MA — In an encouraging sign, North Atlantic right whales – a critically endangered marine species – are swimming off the coast of Cape Cod in record numbers.

Aerial researchers with the Provincetown-based Center for Coastal Studies spotted two mother whales and their calves on Cape Cod Bay, the center said in a news release Monday afternoon.

The whales appeared to be joining dozens of others in a “deep dive” for food.

Scientists estimate there are just 384 North Atlantic right whales left on the planet. Their numbers have been decimated, the scientists say, by hazards including ship collisions and entanglements with commercial fishing lines.

The whales typically give birth in winter off the southeastern U.S., before migrating to New England and Canadian feeding grounds. Cape Cod Bay is one of the busiest spots for the whales during late winter and early spring.

This season, the center says its researchers have already seen more than 100 North Atlantic right whales in the bay. By Jan. 10, CCS had spotted 33, a record for that month.

The 22 whale offspring spotted since last November represent the highest number of calves over the past 15 years, according to the center.

“We have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of this year’s mothers and calves in Cape Cod Bay, and it is always encouraging to see them after their long and hazardous journey north through some of the busiest shipping waters on the East Coast,” said Daniel Palacios, director of the center’s Right Whale Ecology Program.

“Conditions in the bay appear favorable this season, with a strong food supply that we hope will support these mothers as they nurse and care for their calves.”