Passengers on a boat led by SeaTrek Charters of SWFL experienced a unique event recently off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida. An endangered North Atlantic right whale surfaced near the vessel, creating a memorable encounter that was documented on video.
Typically, sightings of right whales are more common along Florida’s east coast; however, they can occasionally be observed in the Gulf of Mexico. A Facebook post accompanying the video shared by the charter noted that the boat was on a half-day fishing excursion when the whale was sighted. One passenger remarked, ‘Our half-day customers got to see something very special today. A whale just off the coast of Fort Myers!!’
Right Whales in the Gulf Coast
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission confirms that while most right whale sightings occur on the state’s east coast, some reports have emerged from the Gulf. Recently, two female right whales were sighted along the Treasure Coast, reinforcing the idea that they venture into these waters. The agency stated, ‘Right whales are occasionally spotted on the Gulf Coast of Florida, where we continue to receive reports of a pair of adult females this winter.’ These whales, identified as Catalog #3940 ‘Koala’ and #4190 ‘Curlew’, have been observed moving south along Southwest Florida.
Guidelines for Interaction
As exciting as these sightings are, NOAA Fisheries emphasizes that humans must maintain a safe distance from these majestic creatures. The guidelines advise: ‘Do not feed, or attempt to feed, any marine mammals. It’s harmful and illegal.’ Additionally, vessels are mandated to stay at least 500 yards away from North Atlantic right whales in U.S. waters.
The Endangered Status of Right Whales
Although whaling no longer poses a threat to North Atlantic right whales, which were protected from hunting since 1935 due to population decline, they still face dangers from entanglements in fishing gear and vessel strikes. NOAA has noted that climate change and ocean noise further complicate their recovery.
Distinguishing Right Whales
Right whales can be recognized by their stocky black bodies, lack of a dorsal fin, short pectoral fins, v-shaped blowholes, broad tails with deep notches, and black bellies marked by irregular white patches.
Reporting Sightings
If you spot a right whale, NOAA encourages reporting the sighting to the U.S. Coast Guard on marine VHF Ch. 16 or calling 877-WHALE-HELP (942-5343). It’s crucial to provide details such as time, location, and a description of the sighting.
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