Song of the Whale

On board the Song of the Whale research vessel off the east coast of the United States. Photo: Alexander Méjia-Johnson / © IFAW

Research expedition to save North Atlantic right whales from extinction

North Atlantic right whales are on the brink of extinction. With about 370 remaining, every whale is vital to the species’ survival.

Whale migration patterns are changing. North Atlantic right whales are now seen—and killed—in areas heavily used by fishing and shipping industries.

IFAW commissioned the Song of the Whale to study North Atlantic right whales through shipping corridors and fishing grounds during this year’s migration. From January through August, Song of the Whale will follow mothers and their calves along the eastern coast of the United States.

What is threatening North Atlantic right whales?

Vessel strikes and entanglement in outmoded fishing gear result in fatal injuries and increased risk of drowning or slowly starving to death.

Because human actions are pushing these whales to extinction, we can—and must—make changes that will protect and conserve them.

Fast facts about Song of the Whale

70-foot sailboat and floating research station
commissioned by IFAW in 2002 to replace the original Song of the Whale, built in 1987
quiet and non-invasive, with features to reduce noise pollution including vibration-dampening engine mounts, a five-bladed propeller similar to that of a stealth submarine, and state-of-the-art exhaust systems
able to monitor whales in inclement weather, at night, and in difficult-to-reach areas
can deploy to port entrances and shipping channels to “babysit” mothers and their calves, protecting them from getting struck in these dangerous areas
has visited 25+ countries to study marine mammals, raise awareness, and conduct outreach to local communities
granted to Marine Conservation Research International in 2014 to maximize its capabilities

Learn more in our brochure

**How will research conducted on the Song of the Whale help?**

The team’s research will help us understand how and where to reduce the life-threatening risks these whales face every day by focusing on:

round-the-clock surveying to collect data on where the whales are and their vocalizations, health, habitat use, and threats, including underwater noise, vessel strikes, and entanglement risk
human actions near the mothers and calves—for example, the speeds and noise produced by vessels that operate in the areas

Follow North Atlantic right whales during their epic migration.

Stay up to date on Song of the Whale’s journey and IFAW’s work around the world.

How can you help IFAW save the North Atlantic right whale from extinction?

With further insights into North Atlantic right whales and the risks they face, we can create targeted plans to reduce those risks. Those plans could include advocating for policy changes—such as mandatory speed restrictions for vessels during certain crucial weeks—or funding new technologies.

For example, IFAW collaborates with the fishers and manufactures who are pioneering innovative gear technology to better advocate for a practical solution that keeps mariners and fishers on the water while also protecting right whales.

Two North Atlantic right whales seen from the Song of the Whale. Photo: Andrea Spence / © IFAW. Activity was conducted pursuant to NMFS ESA/MMPA Permit No. 21371.

IFAW-led research and initiatives like this help to advance the field of marine mammal conservation. But we can’t do it alone.

Help save endangered species