Why are more whales being seen near New York City?

Whales are attracted to New York waters due to cleaner conditions and an abundance of food, like sand lances and menhaden, as traditional feeding grounds shift.

What causes whale strandings in the New York Bight?

Increased ship traffic, including commercial vessels and recreational boats, leads to fatal collisions and entanglements with whales.

Are there efforts to protect whales from boat strikes in New York?

Yes, proposed speed limits and safer fishing gear initiatives aim to reduce whale injuries, though some face opposition.

Home / Environment / Whale Havens Turn Deadly: NYC Waters See Rise in Strandings

Whale Havens Turn Deadly: NYC Waters See Rise in Strandings

3 Jan

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Summary

Whale populations rebound, flocking to New York waters for food.
Increased ship traffic causes fatal collisions and entanglements.
Conservation successes inadvertently create dangerous feeding grounds.

Whale Havens Turn Deadly: NYC Waters See Rise in Strandings

Whale populations, once decimated by hunting, are now experiencing a resurgence, with many species choosing to feed in the waters off New York. This increased presence is due to cleaner harbor waters and an abundance of prey like sand lances and menhaden, a result of climate change shifting traditional feeding grounds and local fishing restrictions. Researchers have observed a significant rise in whale numbers in the New York Bight.

However, this marine haven has become a hazard. The Port of New York-New Jersey, one of the nation's busiest, sees heavy traffic from container ships, tankers, and fishing vessels. Since the pandemic, this congestion has intensified, leading to a sharp increase in whale strandings. Many whales bear scars from propeller strikes or injuries from fishing gear, with a substantial number showing signs of human interference.