Patagonia Whale Boom: Southern Right Whales Thrive in Argentina

In a heartening conservation success story, the population of Southern right whales off the coast of Argentina's Patagonia region has been steadily rebounding in recent years. As of October 2025, scientists have recorded over 2,000 whales in the area, a significant increase from the mere 600 that remained after decades of overhunting.

The whales' resurgence has been a boon for the local tourism industry, with visitors flocking to Peninsula Valdes and other Patagonian hotspots to catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures. Tourists have been treated to awe-inspiring displays of the whales' acrobatic breaching, a spectacle that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

The recovery of the Southern right whale population is the result of concerted conservation efforts over the past several decades. Before large-scale whaling began, the global population was estimated at around 100,000, but it was decimated to just 600 by the last century. Since then, the species has slowly but steadily recovered, with the population around Peninsula Valdes now estimated at around 4,700.

While the whales' resurgence is undoubtedly good news, researchers caution that the expanding population also brings new risks, as the whales venture into areas with increased human activity, such as fishing and boat traffic. Ongoing monitoring and protection efforts will be crucial to ensuring the long-term survival of this remarkable species.