Today, NOAA released the updated population abundance estimate for North Atlantic right whales. There were approximately 370 animals alive during 2023. The species is still endangered, experiencing an ongoing Unusual Mortality Event, and vulnerable to extinction. However, there are some positive short-term (2021-2023) signs of population growth including reduced mortalities and increased births. The abundance estimate released today includes data through November 2023.

This analysis is derived in collaboration with the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium, using a well-established and peer-reviewed modeling framework. This most recent model run incorporates additional data obtained since the last estimate was made, as well as a new statistical method to include known calves born in the most recent year. This is a significant step forward in ensuring that the estimate is as robust as possible.