Bay Area Records 19 Dead Gray Whales in 2024, Highest in 25 Years

The San Francisco Bay Area has experienced an unprecedented number of gray whale deaths this year, with at least 19 dead gray whales and 22 total whales found washed ashore, marking the highest toll in 25 years. Experts from the Marine Mammal Center and California Academy of Sciences report that common causes of death include malnutrition, ship strikes, and entanglements, though many cases remain undetermined due to limited testing. Researchers note a delayed migration this year, causing more whales to enter the busy San Francisco Bay waters in search of food, which may increase the risk of vessel collisions. This year’s sightings have significantly increased, with over 30 individual gray whales identified compared to just six last year. The sudden rise in whale deaths and sightings is unusual and remains unexplained, prompting ongoing investigations and necropsies, including recent efforts to examine a sub-adult gray whale found near Point Isabel in Richmond. Authorities encourage the public to report whale sightings to assist research and monitoring efforts.