Target: Heather Pettis, North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium Executive Administrator
Goal: Support efforts to conserve populations of endangered North Atlantic right whales.
They got their name because humans believed they were the “right” species of whale to slaughter, and for decades humans more than lived up to this notorious assertion. North Atlantic right whales nearly became extinct at the end of the nineteenth century as they became frequent targets of human hunters. Even a decade ago, the species’ population had dropped by 25 percent, sparking urgent calls for protection – as outlined in this ForceChange petition. Thanks to conservation and critical protections, the North Atlantic right whale is making a promising comeback.
Populations of North Atlantic right whales are slowly but surely climbing. In one year’s time, numbers rose by two percent, with roughly eight new calves joining the animals’ ranks. The population since 2020 has risen by seven percent. In another hopeful sign, no deaths have been observed among the burgeoning population in the past year.
Sign the petition below to applaud this encouraging conservation success story in the making.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Executive Administrator Pettis,
The North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium has reported a two percent global increase in the species’ population, continuing a years-long optimistic upward trajectory. This steady progress is validation that conservation measures can and will work if given time. For a species that was on the verge of extinction a century ago, these developments are even more heartening.
Thank you for never giving up on these majestic marine animals and for bringing awareness of their struggles, the risks they still face, and their ongoing recovery to the world.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: National Marine Sanctuaries
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