2012–2013 Right Whale Calving Season

View a collection of photographs from the 2012–2013 North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) calving season. Researchers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are involved in numerous conservation efforts for this critically endangered whale. Aerial surveys, a main tool of researchers, are used to detect right whales, help prevent vessel collisions with whales, document calves, assess distribution and habitat use, and locate dead, injured and entangled whales.

FWC aerial surveys are funded by NOAA Fisheries, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Navy. Research conducted in the waters off of the southeast U.S. coast is a collaborative effort between the FWC, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Sea to Shore Alliance, NOAA Fisheries and the New England Aquarium. FWC also partners with volunteer sighting networks along the coast of Florida.

The images in this photo set are in chronological order. The most recent images appear at the end.

See images from the 2011-12 calving season: flic.kr/s/aHsjybJacg.

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