The aerial survey this past December observed two North Atlantic right whales only a few miles off Long Island’s south shore. Right whales are recognized as a state and federally endangered species, with an estimated 400 individuals left in the world.
Sightings of right whales in New York’s marine water are promising for the future prospects of the population and helps researchers better understand how whales move through the New York Bight. This data helps researchers make informed decisions for ocean planning and assists in developing mitigation actions for activities that directly impact large whales. Some threats to marine mammals and sea turtles include vessel strikes and entanglement in marine debris
