Only two mother 'right' whales and their calves have been spotted this winter off the coasts of Georgia and north Florida, further evidence that the most endangered of the big whales is on the brink of disaster, scientists say. Normally, several mother-calf pairs and single whales have been seen by January. More than two dozen visited the area last year. The whales migrate as far south as Florida in the winter before returning to Canada in the summer. Researchers say the El Nino-La Nina weather cycle of last year could be partly to blame, disturbing the deep ocean currents and making it more difficult for the whales to find food and each other.
Experts say no right whales have been killed by ships during the past two migrations.
Worldwide, their numbers have dwindled to between 350 and 400. Researchers say the 1999-2000 mating season could be critical for the species' future. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you.