Washington researchers report 22 gray whale strandings this year, highlighting concerns about changes in Arctic feeding areas leading to malnutrition and ship strikes
Bremerton, Washington — Gray whale dies The climb continues along the Washington coast and Puget Sound, with researchers now documenting 22 strandings across the state this year as concern grows about changing conditions in Arctic feeding grounds.
The latest confirmed death involves a male gray whale spotted near Bremerton on May 20, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Researchers said the whale showed signs of malnutrition and blunt force trauma.
Scientists from the Cascadia Research Collective and NOAA Fisheries say malnutrition is the most common finding among whales examined this year. At least four whales also showed injuries consistent with ship strikes, and one showed evidence of recent entanglement.
The previous record for gray whale strandings statewide was 35 in 2019. Researchers say the number of strandings this year already exceeds the number recorded at this time in the record season.
“We’re seeing record numbers of gray whales washing up dead, what we call strandings,” John Karabokiitis, founder and research biologist of the Cascadia Research Collective, said in a previous interview. “So far this year, we’ve had 21, just in Washington state, and only gray whales.”
Gray whales migrate annually between their breeding grounds in Mexico and their feeding areas in the Arctic. Researchers believe climate-driven changes in Arctic ecosystems are reducing the prey whales rely on during their migrations.
“Arctic ecosystems have changed quite dramatically over the past 20 to 30 years due to climate change,” Calambokitis said. “There used to be a lot of prey, and now there’s a lot less prey.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Division recently warning to boaters Watch gray whales in poor condition in central Puget Sound, especially near Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, and Kingston. Officials say weakened whales may swim slowly beneath the surface and surface less frequently, making them difficult to spot.
Whales searching for food in unusual areas may face a higher risk of ship strikes and entanglement, researchers say.
Officials urge boaters to slow down and follow in areas with high whale activity Treat whales wisely Viewing Guide.
The public is also encouraged to report stranded marine mammals by calling the West Coast Marine Mammal Stranding Network hotline at 1-866-767-6114 and to avoid approaching whales found ashore.
