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Whales in San Francisco Bay

Roughly 30 gray whales have been spotted in the Bay this season, many more than is typical. Sadly, there have also been at least 14 deaths this year, which is more than in all of 2024. 

We are investigating to help determine the cause of these deaths. By gaining insights into what is causing these tragedies, we can better understand how to help prevent them.

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gray whale fluke
a dead gray whale on the shore
In the News

Los Angeles Times: First Dead Whale of 2023 Washes Up on California Beach

April 3, 2023
  • Species conservation
  • Pathology

First dead gray whale of 2023 washes up on California beach; scientists concerned about trend

Published in the Los Angeles Times: April 3, 2023

A 35-foot gray whale washed up on the shore of a Bay Area beach late last month — the first such fatality in the region this year — adding to the concern scientists have over the health of the species.

The whale likely died of injuries after crashing into a boat, according to scientists with The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, Calif., who conducted a necropsy last month.

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species conservation
pathology
Pádraig Duignan
Gray Whale