Humpback Whale Deaths Raise Alarm Over Vessel Collisions in British Columbia

The death of a humpback whale is often a mystery, as they frequently sink to the ocean floor, leaving researchers to wonder about the cause. However, the recent discovery of a dead humpback whale known as Polyphemus off the coast of British Columbia on Nov. 8, 2025, has sparked alarm among researchers and locals.

Polyphemus was the third known humpback whale found dead in the region in less than two months, a concerning trend that has researchers fearing the whales may be falling victim to an increasing threat: vessel collisions. British Columbia has experienced a remarkable resurgence in humpback whale populations in recent decades, but this growth has also brought the whales into closer contact with maritime traffic, putting them at risk.

"Humpback whales are back," said Christie McMillan, a biologist at Fisheries and Oceans Canada. "We need to be aware where they are most likely to be, and when and how to operate safely on the water near them." The whales are actually most prevalent in the area during the fall months, contrary to the common misconception that they are only present in the summer.

Researchers and locals alike have expressed a deep connection to these individual whales, with one community member describing the latest death as a "heartbreaking blow to our coast." As the investigations into the causes of these deaths continue, the hope is that the tragedies will spur action to protect the whales and prevent further loss of these majestic creatures.