A recent discovery has revealed additional deceased grey whales along the western coast of Vancouver Island, bringing the year’s total to seven found dead. Paul Cottrell, the marine mammal coordinator for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), shared that two deceased grey whales were reported over the weekend by a hiker and a pilot. Cottrell expressed sadness at the need to investigate and determine the cause of these latest incidents.
In April, a concerning trend began when four grey whales were found dead off Vancouver Island in just a span of 10 days. Cottrell remarked on the distressing state of their bodies, describing them as mere skeletons. Researchers attribute the deaths to a significant decline in available prey in the whales’ Arctic feeding areas, leading to starvation as they migrate back north.
The discovery of these deceased grey whales has raised concerns among experts. A total of 36 grey whales have been found dead in the Pacific Ocean this year. John Calambokidis, a research biologist at Cascadia Research Collective, expressed alarm at the rate at which dead whales are being discovered, highlighting the common factor of malnutrition among the examined whales.
Calambokidis noted that the pace of whale deaths this year is unprecedented, surpassing previous years. The investigation into the deaths is ongoing, with efforts coordinated between DFO and partners in California, Oregon, and Washington state. Cottrell emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation to prevent further decline in the whale population.
As the migration season continues until June, more deceased whales are expected to be found. Cottrell stressed the significance of collecting data from these incidents to understand the extent of the issue. The grey whale population, currently estimated at just under 13,000, has been facing a decline in recent years. Individuals who encounter distressed marine mammals are encouraged to report their findings to DFO for assistance.
