The number of North Atlantic Right Whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence has been increasing in recent years with an estimated 80 to 100 marine mammals exploring a relatively new habitat.
Federal Fisheries and Oceans Minister Dominic LeBlanc says with entanglements and the recent deaths of at least ten whales, the DFO is partnering with Transport Canada in what is a busy shipping region.
“To ensure that all of the possible options that will ensure the protection of these marine mammals, the recovery of this species but also the partnership which is essential with the shipping industry and the fishing industry,” notes LeBlanc.
LeBlanc says a critical period for the Right Whales is fast approaching with the mammals expected to begin their migration from the Gulf to waters off the Southeastern United States by early October.
With up to 100 Right Whales estimated to be in the Gulf, DFO scientists say that number is two or three times higher than any other previous year.
Meantime, necropsy results on six whales may not be known until mid-September.
(PHOTO courtesy DFO)
