Happy World Whale Day

February 16 marks World Whale Day - a day to reflect on the beauty of these mammals and celebrate their significance in our oceans and the natural world. It is also a day to reflect on the challenges they face and what we need to do in order to ensure their protection.

The Government of Canada works across departments to develop and enforce essential measures that protect endangered whales in Canadian waters. This includes both the Southern Resident killer whale and North Atlantic right whale. At Transport Canada, one of our key steps is putting in place mandatory speed restrictions to avoid vessel collisions with the North Atlantic right whale in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. On the West Coast, we put in place a mandatory measure for vessels to stay 400-metres away from Southern Resident killer whales.

Protecting the Southern Resident killer whale

Southern Resident killer whales are naturally curious and known for being intelligent, social, and playful. A vital part of the Salish Sea marine ecosystem, these picky eaters use echolocation clicks and vocalizations to communicate with each other and hunt. However, the Salish Sea is a busy area, and vessel traffic in the region is a stressor for the species due to increased underwater noise and the potential for vessel strikes.

There are several measures in place to prevent humans and vessels from making contact with them. With fewer than 75 left as of January 2025, the stakes are high for this critically endangered species.

If you encounter a whale, here’s what you should know:

• Never disturb marine mammals.
• Stay at least 400 meters away from all killer whales in Southern B.C. waters (If you see a tail, fin, or spray – slow down and stay away)
• In Canada, report sitings using the WhaleReport App or contact the Sightings Report.
• Report any accidental contact with marine mammals to the Marine Mammal Incident Reporting Hotline (1-866-567-6277 in Canada) as required by law.

Protecting the North Atlantic right whale

Known as ‘gentle giants’, North Atlantic right whales have a calm demeanor and can grow up to 17 metres in length. They’re also typically black and known for the unique patches of rough skin on their heads. As migratory mammals, they travel along the east coast of North America, migrating from eastern Florida to the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Newfoundland during warmer months.

With fewer than 400 of these majestic mammals remaining, protecting them is a collective responsibility.

Want to help safeguard these whales? Here’s what you should know:

• Never disturb marine mammals.
• Maintain a minimum distance of 100 metres from North Atlantic right whales. If you spot a tail, fin, or spray - slow down and stay away.
• Report sightings of right whales to aid in tracking and conservation efforts. Use tools like the WhaleReport App or submit a Sightings Report.
• Respect speed limits in designated areas of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, including limits of 10 knots for vessels over 13 metres, even outside critical habitats.
• Report any accidental contact with marine mammals to the Marine Mammal Incident Reporting Hotline (1-866-567-6277 in Canada) as required by law.
• Stay updated on seasonal and temporary measures during warmer migratory months.

We can only succeed if everyone plays their part in the recovery and survival of endangered whales. By following these guidelines and promoting responsible marine activities.

If everyone takes an active role in helping to keep our whales safe, knowing and following the rules and best practices, reporting any harassing behaviour, and staying a safe distance from endangered whales can help give the best chance for population recovery.

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