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WDC2023-007 NMLC Release (16)

Seal Rescued in Marshfield Released Back Into The Wild

For Immediate Release, May 31, 2023 PLYMOUTH, MA - A young male grey seal that...

Norway ups whale kill numbers and removes whale welfare protections

The whaling season in Norway has begun on the back of disturbing announcements from the...
Image taken from an unmanned hexacopter at >100ft during a research collaboration between NOAA/SWFSC, SR3 and the Coastal Ocean Research Institute. Research authorized by NMFS permit #19091.

Southern Resident orca petition to list them under Oregon Endangered Species Act advanced

The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission voted today to advance a petition seeking to protect...
Hysazu Photography

WDC and Conservation Partners Continue to Seek Oregon Endangered Species Protection for Southern Resident Orcas

On Friday, April 21st, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission will determine whether the petition...

Brain disease cat parasite found in beluga whales

A parasite, previously found in cats, that can cause brain disease in humans has now been found in Arctic beluga whales.

Pregnant women are often warned to avoid changing kitty litter in order to stay clear of the parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. which can cause miscarriage and also blindness. The find by scientists now raises health concerns for indigenous Inuit people who eat beluga whale meat.

Whale and dolphin species can carry high levels of mercury and other harmful substances in their meat and blubber. Independent studies of children in the Faroe Islands, for example, have directly linked brain, cardiovascular and other development problems to mums who have eaten whale meat whilst pregnant. Other, recent studies have shown a direct link between the Parkinsons disease in adults and eating pilot whale meat. Despite these clear health issues, the hunts and consumption of whale meat in various countries continues.