New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“Late last week, 24 North Atlantic right whales were seen just south of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket by our aerial survey team!
There are ~340 North Atlantic right whales left in existence, which means ~7% of the entire population was spotted by our team! A remarkable sight on this flight: 15-year-old right whale “Nimbus” (#3812) was seen no longer entangled in fishing gear. Earlier this year, disentanglement efforts were led by Wildlife Resources Division – Georgia DNR, and they appear to be a success!
The sighting of the group of whales (including Nimbus) triggered the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to issue a voluntary “slow speed zone” for boaters in the area. Additional right whale sightings further east by NOAA also prompted an extension of an existing slow speed zone that was set to expire this week.
All mariners in the area are encouraged to slow down to 10 knots or below in these Dynamic Management Areas to help prevent boat strikes with these critically endangered whales. Both Dynamic Management Areas are in effect until March 26.”-New England Aquarium.
New England Aquarium photo.
New England Aquarium photo.
