North Atlantic right whale calf discovered off Quebec coast

Researchers have discovered an unidentified 15,000-pound North Atlantic right whale calf off Anticosti Island in Quebec, Canada. The calf was photographed in September alongside its 38-year-old mother, known to scientists as Silt.

Data analyzed by the New England Aquarium indicates the calf was likely born months ago but went undetected during winter surveys. This discovery brings the total number of newborn right whales identified from the most recent birthing season to 24. This figure marks the species' most productive year since 2009 and the fourth highest on record.

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the world's rarest marine mammals, with a global population estimated at only about 380 individuals. The species has faced steady declines since 2010 due to threats such as ship collisions, fishing gear entanglements, and ocean warming. With only approximately 70 reproductive-age females remaining, successful calving seasons are critical to the species' survival.