North Atlantic Right Whale Entangled Off New England Coast
A critically endangered North Atlantic right whale has been spotted entangled in ropes, exacerbating the species' decline amid ongoing environmental challenges.
- The entangled whale, seen about 50 miles south of Rhode Island, is struggling with ropes protruding from its mouth, complicating rescue efforts.
- Rescuers face difficulties reaching the whale due to its distant location and adverse weather conditions, with attempts ongoing as conditions permit.
- The right whale population has suffered significant declines, with current estimates below 360 individuals, largely due to entanglements and ship collisions.
- Environmental groups are advocating for stronger protections against entanglements, especially following a six-year pause on new federal whale regulations enacted in late 2022.
- The whales' migration from Florida to New England is increasingly perilous due to shifting food sources and warming waters, further endangering the species.
The Guardian 
Associated Press 
CBS News 