BOEM has rescinded the ‘Expanded Rice’s Whale Protection Efforts’ under the Secretary of the Interior’s Order ‘Unleashing American Energy.’ Rice’s whales are Critically Endangered with ~50 animals left (as of 2017/8 data). NMFS estimates that < 1 whale every 10 years may be removed to remain viable.

I had a great time at #SMM2024! It was wonderful to connect with so many marine mammal scientists - both old friends and new ones. Thanks to everyone to who chatted with me about my poster, I look forward to engaging you all again in the future! #marinemammalscience #welfarescience