Gray Whales Dying in San Francisco Bay at Alarming Rate, Scientists Say
Nearly one-fifth of gray whales that swim into San Francisco Bay die there, mostly after hitting ships on busy shipping routes. New research shows the deaths are happening at alarming rates as climate change forces whales to change their migration patterns.
Gray whales are dying in San Francisco Bay at rates that worry scientists. Nearly 20% of whales that enter the bay die there, with most deaths caused by collisions with ships.
The bay sits on one of the world's busiest shipping routes. Large cargo vessels and ferries regularly travel through the same waters where whales now feed.
Climate change is forcing whales to adapt to new conditions. As ocean temperatures rise and food sources shift, nutritionally stressed whales may see San Francisco Bay as an attractive feeding ground.
Gray whales were once rare visitors to the bay. But changing migration patterns mean more whales are swimming into these dangerous waters.
Researchers hope their data will help marine officials find ways to protect whales while keeping shipping lanes open.
Climate change is pushing whales into dangerous waters where they collide with cargo ships and ferries. This shows how global warming affects ocean life and creates new risks for marine animals trying to find food.
Scientists will continue tracking whale movements and deaths to find solutions that protect whales from ship strikes.
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