Rare Sight! Two Endangered Whale Calves Just Spotted Off Florida’s Coast

Newborn calf of right whale Catalog #3503 ‘Caterpillar’ surfaces next to its mother’s head. The pair was sighted approx. 2NM off Ponte Vedra on Dec 30 2024, photo by NOAA

Exciting news for marine conservation! Aerial survey teams have confirmed the sighting of two new North Atlantic right whale calves off the coast of Florida on December 30, 2024. These rare and endangered whales were observed near the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR) in Ponte Vedra.

The proud mothers, Catalog #3503 ‘Caterpillar’ and Catalog #3540 ‘Blackheart,’ are both 20 years old and have been monitored by researchers for years. This marks Caterpillar’s first calf, while Blackheart has now given birth to her second calf, the first in 12 years.

Earlier in the season, researchers identified both females as potential mothers when they arrived in the Southeast U.S. calving grounds. Their extended stay in the area raised hopes, culminating in the exciting discovery of their calves.

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the most endangered marine mammals, with fewer than 400 individuals remaining. Each calf represents a vital step toward the species' recovery.

Right whales have been sighted up and down the Eastern Seaboard in recent weeks. While researchers work tirelessly to track and monitor these whales, low visibility, rough seas, and weather conditions can hinder their efforts.

Boaters are urged to remain vigilant in areas where right whales are known to frequent. Always post a lookout, especially in foggy conditions, low light, or rough seas. Right whales are protected under federal law, and maintaining a safe distance is crucial to their safety.

Anyone who spots a right whale is encouraged to report the sighting immediately by calling 1-877-WHALE-HELP (1-877-942-5343) or contacting the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16.
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For more information on recent sightings and updates, visit whalemap.org.