North Atlantic Right Whales Spotted Near Florida Waters

Two critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, identified as Koala and Curlew, were recently spotted near Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island, Florida. This rare sighting is significant, as only about 370 North Atlantic right whales remain globally, with just 70 fertile females. Their declining numbers have made conservation efforts increasingly urgent.

Rare Sighting of Right Whales Near Florida

The whales were first observed near Fort Myers Beach by charter captains and fishermen, with a second sighting reported near Caxambas Pass. Right whales, which can exceed 50 feet in length and weigh more than 100,000 pounds, are recognizable by their black-and-white coloration and unique callosities—rough skin patches that help researchers identify individuals. 

Their massive size makes them comparable to a firetruck, yet their dark coloring and low profile in the water make them difficult to spot, increasing their vulnerability to vessel strikes.