Overview
Location
Details
CMA Research Institute scientists have collected more than 20 years of aerial survey data on this species during its critical calving time in the southeast.
At the request of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), our researchers have flown daily aerial surveys for the past decade to provide real-time reports of right whale locations to mariners operating commercial, military, and other vessels in Florida and Georgia’s port areas – the only known calving areas for this species. These reports reduce the likelihood of collisions with right whales, and enable our researchers to search for signs of entanglement and aid in recovery efforts when necessary.
Research Project Objectives
- Monitor North Atlantic right whales during their calving season through aerial surveys designed to prevent vessel collisions and document reproductive rates.
- Provide scientific data to marine decision makers on conserving the species.
- Did rescue and recovery efforts to disentangle whales from fishing gear.
- Locate carcasses for recovery and necropsies.
- Assist with locating whales for genetic sampling.
*Funding from Georgia Department of Natural Resources and NOAA
