Despite making a comeback after a century of whaling, grey whales are declining again on the BC coast because of climate and human pressures.
The population hit its peak in 2018, with nearly 25,000 individuals, but dropped by 40% by last year, after several mass die-off events.
A new study shows grey whales have been getting smaller, with their average length steadily in decline since 2000. The change has been most pronounced in females. The study concludes the changing climate in the ocean is affecting their reproduction, and populations are reacting to their new environment.
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The study suggests the change will have implications on other species, particularly the whales’ prey, but so far long-term effects are unknown.
