Whale Zone Ahead: A Cetacean Speed Trap Tags Ships Going Over The Limit

"North Atlantic right whales, a critically endangered species with fewer than 366 remaining individuals, face two main threats: fishing gear entanglements and ship strikes.

Many ships do not obey voluntary or mandatory speed restrictions in areas where North Atlantic right whales are present, raising the risk of fatal collisions.

A new tool called Ship Speed Watch provides information on vessels that are not obeying speed restrictions.

Conservationists say they hope it will help build awareness and strengthen regulations surrounding ship speeds."

Elizabeth Claire Alberts reports for Mongabay November 10, 2020.

Source: Mongabay, 11/11/2020