The latest estimate from the New England Aquarium reveals a slight increase in the North Atlantic right whale population in 2024, with numbers now at 384, up from the revised 2023 estimate of 376. Notably, there has been a significant decrease in entanglements and ship strikes, which are primary causes of harm to these whales, reported by the center this year.
Philip Hamilton, a senior scientist at the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life in Boston, expressed optimism about the eight-whale increase, noting that it marks a positive development after a decade of population decline. However, Hamilton emphasized that despite this progress, the species is not yet fully recovered.
The North Atlantic right whale has been classified as endangered in the U.S. since 1970. Hamilton pointed out that the whales adapted to a habitat shift in the 2010s, migrating to the Gulf of St. Lawrence in late spring, which resulted in increased mortality rates.
Hamilton stated that while the whales are adjusting to new ocean conditions, unforeseen changes could pose risks in the future. He highlighted the potential impact of whales moving to high-risk areas like shipping lanes, emphasizing the need for continued conservation efforts.
Looking ahead, Hamilton anticipates another modest increase in the whale population, barring any unforeseen events. He referenced the high mortality rates in 2017 and 2019 in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, which led to regulatory interventions such as speed limits for ships and fishing area closures.
In 2024, there were five reported right whale deaths, 16 entanglements, and eight vessel strikes. In contrast, 2025 has seen a decrease in incidents, with one new entanglement injury and one vessel strike recorded so far.
Hamilton noted the slow increase in the reproductive pool, with the number of reproductive females rising to 72 in 2024. Additionally, 11 new births have been observed in 2025, with some mother-calf pairs sighted in unexpected locations.
While acknowledging the positive trends, Hamilton highlighted the need for ongoing vigilance and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of the North Atlantic right whale population.