North atlantic right whales show signs of recovery with 15 new calves, but species still faces extinction without stronger protections

The critically endangered North Atlantic right whale population is showing modest signs of hope this winter, with researchers identifying 15 new calves born off the southeastern United States. This marks an improvement over two of the past three breeding seasons for one of the world’s rarest marine mammals, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The species’ total population now stands at an estimated 384 animals—a 7% increase from 2020 levels after years of decline. While the recent births offer encouragement, marine biologists emphasize that much more reproduction is needed to secure the species’ survival. NOAA scientists say the population requires “approximately 50 or more calves per year for many years” to halt the decline and begin true recovery.

The whales face two primary threats that continue to drive them toward extinction: fatal collisions with large commercial vessels and entanglement in fishing gear. These human-caused dangers have prevented the population from rebounding despite conservation efforts. Environmental advocates warn that current protections remain inadequate, with the federal government maintaining a moratorium on new right whale protection rules until 2028. Commercial fishing groups are pushing to extend this regulatory pause even longer.

“This year’s number is encouraging, but the species remains in peril without stronger laws,” said Gib Brogan of the environmental organization Oceana. With limited reproductive females in the population and the breeding season still ongoing, reaching the critical threshold of 50 calves this year appears unlikely, leaving the species’ long-term survival in question.