More gray whales have been discovered dead along the western coast of Vancouver Island, bringing the total number of deaths to seven this year. Paul Cottrell, the marine mammal coordinator at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), mentioned that two deceased gray whales were reported by a hiker and a pilot over the weekend, prompting the need for further investigation into the cause of death. This follows a previous incident in April where four gray whales were found dead within a span of 10 days, signaling a troubling pattern.
Experts attribute the deaths to a significant decrease in available prey in the whales’ Arctic feeding areas, leading to starvation as they migrate back north. Cottrell expressed no surprise at the recent surge in gray whale deaths, given the recent spike in mortality rates. A total of 36 gray whale carcasses have been discovered in the Pacific Ocean this year, with a notable increase in the number of dead whales causing concern among researchers.
John Calambokidis, a research biologist at Cascadia Research Collective, confirmed that 17 gray whales have been found dead off the coast of Washington state this year, all showing signs of malnutrition. Calambokidis expressed growing alarm at the rapid pace of whale deaths, surpassing previous years’ mortality rates. The situation is reminiscent of 2019, the worst year on record for gray whale deaths during an “unusual mortality event.”
Collaboration between DFO and partners in California, Oregon, and Washington state is ongoing to address the escalating issue. Cottrell emphasized the need to monitor the situation closely as more gray whale deaths are expected during their migration north until June. The dwindling gray whale population, estimated to be just under 13,000, underscores the urgency of the situation.
Concerned individuals who encounter distressed marine mammals are encouraged to report sightings to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for further action.