Increased Sightings of Gray Whales Raise Alarm in San Francisco Bay
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — This year, the San Francisco Bay has witnessed an unusual number of gray whale sightings, with 30 reported so far, compared to just four in the previous year. However, this increase is coupled with a troubling statistic: six dead whales have washed ashore, including five gray whales.
Unprecedented Whale Activity
Joe Nazar of San Francisco Whale Tours emphasized the remarkable uptick in whale activity, stating, “This year we’ve had a tremendous amount of whales, and what we’re seeing is an activity that I haven’t seen in years.” With recent video footage capturing gray whale spouts, the excitement among whale watchers is palpable.
Concerns Over Whale Deaths
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the whale sightings, experts at the Marine Mammal Center highlight significant concerns regarding whale mortality. Giancarlo Rulli from the center reported, “The Marine Mammal Center confirms that there’s been the fifth death of a gray whale in San Francisco Bay.” These deaths raise questions about potential human impacts on their populations.
Possible Causes of Death
Investigations into the causes of these fatalities suggest possible vessel strikes. Rulli noted, “We know at least one of these five was probable vessel strike. We also know that at least two were sudden deaths, which leads us to believe, potentially vessel strike.” However, definitive conclusions remain elusive.
The Busy Waterways of San Francisco Bay
San Francisco Bay serves as a bustling route for cargo ships, commuter ferries, and recreational boats, creating challenges for wildlife. Rulli stated that operators are increasingly cautious: “There are high-speed ferries that are literally stopping in their tracks to allow whales to pass.”
Coastal authorities have implemented a new warning system aimed at reducing the risk of ship strikes, further demonstrating the ongoing efforts to protect marine life.
Extended Stays of Gray Whales
Gray whales typically use the bay as a temporary stop-off during their migration to the Arctic Circle. However, this year, many are lingering longer than usual. Rulli pointed out that “a third of those 30 gray whales that have entered the bay so far this year have been in the bay for over 20 days.”
Community Engagement in Whale Conservation
Local boaters have shown a keen interest in whale conservation. Nazar remarked, “But my favorite whale of all whales is the California gray whale, it’s our whale.” Efforts are underway to engage the community in active monitoring of whale locations; the Whale Alert app allows users to log sightings, helping keep authorities informed.
Conclusion
The San Francisco Bay is a vital habitat for gray whales, but its increasing traffic necessitates heightened awareness and protective measures. With local efforts focused on both whale observation and conservation, there remains hope for the safe coexistence of these magnificent creatures and the bustling activities of the bay.
