Numerous grey whales have been discovered deceased along the western coast of Vancouver Island, bringing the total count of dead whales to seven this year. Paul Cottrell, the marine mammal co-ordinator at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), mentioned that two dead grey whales were reported by a hiker and a pilot over the recent weekend. Cottrell expressed sadness over the new discoveries, emphasizing the need to investigate the cause of death.
In April, a distressing pattern began with four grey whales washing up dead off Vancouver Island within a mere 10-day span. Cottrell described the condition of the stranded whales as emaciated, resembling “a bag of bones.” Researchers attribute the deaths to a significant drop in available prey in the whales’ Arctic feeding habitats, leading to starvation as they journey back north.
The recent surge in grey whale mortality has raised concerns among experts. A total of 36 dead grey whales have been recorded in the Pacific Ocean this year. John Calambokidis, a research biologist at Cascadia Research Collective, expressed growing alarm at the pace of whale mortalities. He highlighted the prevalence of malnutrition among the examined whales as a common factor.
Cascadia Research Collective confirmed that 17 grey whales have been found deceased off Washington state in 2026, with malnutrition being a prevailing issue. Calambokidis indicated that this year’s mortality rate is unprecedented, surpassing previous years, including the 2019 “unusual mortality event” that claimed 216 grey whale lives.
Collaboration between agencies such as DFO, the Marine Mammal Center, and the California Academy of Sciences aims to address the escalating death toll. Cottrell emphasized the collective concern and the importance of monitoring the situation closely to prevent further population decline. As the migration season continues until June, more deceased whales are expected to be discovered, prompting ongoing investigations to gather crucial data on the extent of the crisis.
The grey whale population, estimated at just under 13,000, faces a critical threat to its survival. Individuals witnessing distressed marine mammals are encouraged to report such sightings to DFO for appropriate intervention and support.