Eleven Atlantic right whale calves were born in U.S. waters during the 2024-25 birthing season, well below the average of 17 calves, according to the New England Aquarium, which is leading efforts to recover the critically endangered species.
Aerial surveys also revealed, however, that four adult female whales had given birth for the first time, which scientists called “a sign of hope” for the whales, whose population is believed to hover around 370 individuals.
The right whale is considered one of the most endangered marine mammals, and their prospects of recovery have dimmed with rising reports of boat strikes and entanglements in fishing gear.
Marine biologists affiliated with the aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life said they were hoping to find more than 20 calves this year, though annual surveys have varied widely over the years — from 0 to 39 calves.
