MARSHFIELD, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Observers with the Center for Coastal Studies spotted a North Atlantic right whale and her calf north of Marshfield Monday, according to a press release.
The sighting marked the first of 2024.
"Cape Cod Bay is a very significant place for right whales to bring their calves," said the center's Right Whale Ecology Director Dr. Charles Mayo. "Here they find protected, calmer waters, and an abundance of food."
Read More: Humans Still Pose Significant Threat To Endangered Whales, Report
Right whales breed off the country's southeastern coast in the winter.
They brave "horrendous" waters and dodge boats on their spring journey up to New England and Canada, experts said in the press release.
"It’s always a relief to see right whale mothers arriving safely in Cape Cod Bay with their calves," researcher Ryan Schosberg said.
Right whales are critically endangered, experts said.
Fewer than 360 right whales currently live in the wild.
Listen live to WBZ NewsRadio for the very latest.