The North Atlantic right whale, one of the most threatened marine species in the world, returns to the center of attention after the death of Division, a young male of just four years old, found lifeless on January 27 off the coast of North Carolina. His death is the first case of 2026 attributed with certainty to the fact of having become entangled in fishing gear, an unfortunately recurring phenomenon for this species.
Division had been known to scientists and monitoring programs for years. The animal had been sighted several times between the east coast of the United States and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, a major feeding area for North Atlantic right whales. In early December he was reported to have fishing ropes wrapped around his head and mouth, a condition that limits movement, makes feeding difficult and causes deep wounds.
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Rescue attempts
Rescue teams intervened despite difficult weather conditions and the distance from the coast. Some of the equipment was removed, but it was not possible to completely free the animal. Over the next few days, Division was observed in a progressive state of debilitation, until he was last sighted alive on January 21st. According to experts, being entangled for a long time seriously compromised his health.
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A critically endangered species
NOAA and research institutions estimate the global population of North Atlantic black whales to be approximately 380 to 384 individuals, with fewer than 70 active breeding females. Each loss therefore has a huge impact on the survival of the species. Collisions with vessels and interaction with fishing gear remain the main causes of mortality.
According to organizations for the protection of marine mammals, Division’s case demonstrates that rescue alone is not enough. Tools and technologies exist to reduce the risk of entanglement, such as short-line or rope-free fishing systems, but their adoption remains limited. Any delay in applying these measures results in new losses.
A fragile sign of hope
Despite the critical picture, some positive signs emerge. Since the start of the breeding season in November, 21 new births have been recorded, almost double compared to the previous year. A fact that fuels hope, but which is not enough to compensate for a mortality rate that is still too high.
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