More instances of deceased grey whales have been discovered along the western coast of Vancouver Island, bringing the total to seven found deceased this year. Marine mammal coordinator Paul Cottrell from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) mentioned that two dead grey whales were reported by a hiker and a pilot over the weekend, emphasizing the need to investigate the cause. This follows the troubling discovery of four dead grey whales in a span of 10 days in April, initially raising concerns.
Researchers attribute the deaths to a significant drop in available prey in their Arctic feeding grounds, leading to starvation as the whales journey back north for feeding. A total of 36 grey whale fatalities have been recorded in the Pacific Ocean this year, with experts like John Calambokidis from Cascadia Research Collective expressing heightened alarm at the rapid rate of discoveries.
Notably, 17 grey whales have been found deceased off Washington state this year, with malnutrition being a common factor among the examined whales. Calambokidis highlighted the unprecedented frequency of discoveries, surpassing previous years. In 2019, 216 grey whales were found dead during an unusual mortality event, marking the worst year for such incidents.
Collaborative efforts between DFO and partners in California, Oregon, and Washington state are ongoing to address the situation. Cottrell emphasized the collective concern and efforts to prevent further increases in mortality rates and declines in the grey whale population. With the migration period expected to continue until June, more deceased whales are anticipated to be found, prompting continued sampling and data collection efforts to assess the severity of the situation.
The grey whale population, estimated to be just under 13,000, has been facing a decline. Individuals witnessing distressed marine mammals are encouraged to report such incidents to DFO for prompt action.