PROVINCETOWN, MA – Researchers from the Center for Coastal Studies spotted four to seven endangered North Atlantic right whales in Cape Cod Bay yesterday, Jan. 24, 2024. The sighting occurred aboard the Center’s research vessel Shearwater, operating out of Provincetown Harbor.
These are the first documented right whales in Cape Cod Bay this season. Previously, the Center’s aerial survey team observed two right whales on Stellwagen Bank on January 12th.
The whales were observed over the course of four hours, often swimming below the surface. The Center’s researchers were able to photograph two right whales feeding at the surface near Wood End Lighthouse. The whales were identified as #1701 Aphrodite, a 37-year-old female & #3370 Archipelago, an adult female that was first observed in 2003. Both of these individuals had calves last season.
Weather permitting, the Center will conduct additional surveys by boat and plane over the coming days and weeks to continue to monitor the right whale population in Cape Cod Bay.
Photo: North Atlantic right whale 1701 Aphrodite blowing mist, NOAA Permit #25740-02
