July 14th, 2024

Unprecedented numbers of gray whales are visiting SF Bay, reason mysterious

Unprecedented sightings of gray whales, humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and bottlenose dolphins in San Francisco Bay raise questions about ecosystem recovery or climate change impacts. Researchers express uncertainty and concern over risks posed by high vessel traffic.

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Unprecedented numbers of gray whales are visiting SF Bay, reason mysterious

Unprecedented numbers of gray whales, humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and bottlenose dolphins are now regularly seen in San Francisco Bay, a stark contrast to decades ago when they were absent. While the return of these marine species could indicate ecosystem recovery or climate change impacts, researchers remain uncertain. Concerns arise due to the high vessel traffic in the bay, posing risks of injury or death to these animals. Gray whales, in particular, have been observed feeding in the bay, a behavior uncommon outside their Arctic feeding grounds. Despite potential concerns about changing food availability, researchers view this adaptability positively, suggesting resilience in the face of environmental challenges. The presence of these marine mammals, including returning individuals, indicates a potential adaptation to the local area. While these species are not currently endangered, the safety of these charismatic creatures in the bustling waters of San Francisco Bay remains a significant concern for conservationists and researchers.

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