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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Unusual Whale Deaths Highlight Ongoing Trend Along the East Coast
Three whales washing up on Hampton Roads beaches in three days may seem unusual, but it sheds light on a concerning long-term trend observed along the East Coast.
Concerns Raised by Experts
Gib Brogan, campaign director for Oceana, expressed that the recent deaths are “not normal by any means,” pointing out that Virginia is not the only state experiencing humpback and minke whale deaths. Oceana, an international organization based in Washington, is dedicated to ocean conservation and whale safety in the United States.
Brogan highlighted a concerning pattern of humpback whale deaths stretching from Florida to Maine and eastern Canada over several years. The primary causes of death identified so far have been vessel strikes from boats and entanglement with fishing gear.
Recent Incidents
The first whale, identified as a young humpback, washed up in Virginia Beach, attracting the attention of onlookers as scientists conducted a necropsy. The following day, a second humpback whale was found off the coast of False Cape State Park before washing ashore.
According to NOAA, humpback whale mortalities have been on the rise since 2016, with Virginia and North Carolina recording significant numbers of deaths in the past few years.
Challenges Faced by Whales
Experts have observed that humpback whales are venturing into new areas in pursuit of abundant food sources, increasing their vulnerability to human interactions such as vessel strikes. Similarly, minke whales are also facing challenges, with human interaction and infectious diseases identified as potential causes of death.
Protecting Whale Species
Efforts are underway to protect whale species from such threats, including speed restrictions for boats to reduce the risk of collisions. Brogan emphasized the importance of proactive measures to minimize human-caused harm to these majestic creatures.
Conclusion
As winter brings whales to Hampton Roads, it is crucial to address the growing concerns surrounding whale deaths and take steps to safeguard these marine giants. By raising awareness and implementing protective measures, we can strive to ensure a safer environment for whales along the East Coast.
2024 The Virginian-Pilot. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.