North Atlantic Right Whale Calving Season Wraps with 23 Calves Spotted

Millipede’ and her 2026 calf sighted on February 10, 2026, approximately 21.5nm east of Blackbeard Island, GA.
*Photo credit: Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, taken under NOAA permit #26919. Funded by Georgia DNR and NOAA Fisheries.*

(CLEARWATER, FL – May 1, 2026) – The 2025–2026 North Atlantic right whale calving season, which ran from November through April, concluded on a hopeful note with a total of 23 calves documented. This marks the first time in 15 years that more than 20 calves have been recorded in a single season—an encouraging milestone for this critically endangered species.

Calves and their mothers were observed throughout the southeastern United States, from North Carolina to Florida, with sightings even extending into the Gulf. These observations reflect the dedicated, collaborative efforts of survey teams and partner organizations working tirelessly to monitor and protect right whales during this critical period.

Since mid-November, the aerial survey team from Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI), supported by partners including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, conducted regular monitoring flights to document whale activity and ensure protections were in place.

“These results show what’s possible when strong partnerships and conservation measures come together,” said Melanie White, CMARI research biologist. “Providing a safe environment for mothers and calves during calving season remains essential to the species’ future,” said White.

Seasonal Management Areas, enforced annually from November through April along key portions of the southeastern coast, continue to play a vital role in reducing vessel strikes—one of the leading threats to right whales. Within these areas, vessels 65 feet and longer are required to travel at speeds of 10 knots or less.

While 23 calves represent a productive and encouraging season, ongoing conservation efforts remain critical. With an estimated population of approximately 384 individuals, including about 70 reproductively active females, the species still faces significant challenges from human-related threats such as vessel strikes and entanglement in fishing gear.

Public awareness and reporting remain key components of protection efforts. Mariners and coastal communities are encouraged to report all sightings to the NOAA hotline at 877-WHALE-HELP and to maintain a safe distance of at least 500 yards from whales.

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Media Contact: Marsha Strickhauser | mstrickhouser@CMAquarium.org | (727) 242-0770

About Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI): Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI) is a leading research organization dedicated to the conservation and preservation of marine life. With a focus on manatees and North Atlantic right whales, CMARI works collaboratively across the southeastern United States and internationally to protect vulnerable species and promote a sustainable future for our oceans.
About Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working marine rescue center dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through leadership in education, research, rescue, rehabilitation and release. With a mission to preserve the environment and its marine life, CMA is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, and more. Through Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, CMA conducts important global research focused on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales and sea turtles. The major motion picture Dolphin Tale (2011) and its sequel Dolphin Tale 2 (2014) features the true stories of rescued resident dolphins Winter and Hope, inspiring millions around the world. The mission and potential to change people’s lives differentiates Clearwater Marine Aquarium from any other aquarium in the world. CMAquarium.org.

We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.

A Florida non-profit 501(c)(3) organization