A days-old North American right whale calf was found injured off the coast of Georgia on Jan. 8, 2020. (Photo credit: FWC, NOAA permit number 20556-01)
A newborn North Atlantic right whale has been found injured off the coast of the United States.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said Thursday the days-old calf was found off the coast of Georgia on Wednesday.
Officials said the whale has two injuries “consistent with the propeller of a vessel.”
“The injuries are concerning because of the severity and location of the wounds,” said the NOAA.
“One of the injuries appears to include damage to the calf’s mouth which could hamper its ability to nurse and feed.”
Some sad news to report this morning. NOAA partner, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (MyFWC Florida…
Posted by NOAA Fisheries Service on Thursday, January 9, 2020
The mammal is the fourth North Atlantic right whale calf to be spotted so far this season.
Its mother is a whale known as Derecha, who is at least 27 years old. Officials said she has given birth to four calves — the last in 2010.
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