Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is currently probing the demise of another grey whale in British Columbia. The discovery of a deceased grey whale on a remote section of Haida Gwaii on May 24 has prompted the deployment of the DFO marine mammal response team to the site for sample collection and investigation into the cause of death. This incident marks the eighth grey whale fatality in British Columbia this year, contributing to a disturbing surge in deaths within the population, with signs indicating starvation as a leading cause.
During a webinar hosted by the Marine Education and Research Society focusing on the challenges faced by grey whales, DFO marine mammal coordinator Paul Cottrell disclosed the latest mortality event. Cottrell expressed concern over the escalating number of deaths, suggesting that the actual count might be higher due to challenges in locating all deceased whales along the vast coastline.
Cottrell highlighted that the current year could surpass the previous worst year in 2019 when 11 dead grey whales were recorded in British Columbia. Notably, DFO has responded swiftly to the recent spate of incidents, including the examination of four dead whales off Vancouver Island within a ten-day span.
The necropsy results from the examined whales are expected to be available in approximately one month. Researchers have emphasized the urgent need for action to address the critical situation faced by grey whales, who are succumbing to starvation on their northward migration to feeding grounds. The decline in prey availability in the Arctic is believed to be a significant factor contributing to the increased mortality rate among grey whales.
With the grey whale population estimated at just under 13,000 and a total of 40 grey whale mortalities reported in British Columbia since 2019, the situation is deemed alarming. The year 2019 witnessed a substantial spike in global grey whale deaths, with 216 recorded cases, leading to the declaration of an unusual mortality event.
Furthermore, the status of the grey whale, eastern north Pacific population, was classified as being of special concern by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. This population was listed under the federal Species at Risk Act back in 2005 to highlight its vulnerability.
In light of these developments, Jackie Hildering from the Marine Education and Research Society is advocating for the designation of all grey whales as an endangered species in Canada to ensure their protection. This call to action aims to trigger legislative measures, research funding, and educational initiatives to safeguard the future of grey whales in Canadian waters.
