The endangered Rice’s whale needs our help

Rice’s whales are one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world.

Researchers say there are only about 50 left in the Gulf of Mexico, which is the only place that Rice’s whales live. With such a small population, the protection of every remaining whale is critical to the species’ survival.

The Biden administration is taking steps to protect these incredible whales from speeding vessels and offshore drilling, but there’s a push in Congress to sacrifice these rare whales.

Collisions with boats can and have killed Rice’s whales. In 2009, a female Rice’s whale was determined to have died as a result of a vessel strike. In 2019, a whale was spotted in the Gulf of Mexico with a deformed spine resulting from a collision.

Requiring boats to slow down where Rice’s whales live can make a difference.

In addition to reducing the risk of deadly collisions, establishing a slowdown zone can also reduce ocean pollution. Loud noises from shipping traffic disrupt Rice’s whales ability to perform necessary functions, including navigating and avoiding predators.

And it isn’t just speeding vessels that are putting Rice’s whales at risk. Their habitat is also in the crosshairs of oil and gas companies pushing for more offshore drilling.

It’s beyond the pale to sacrifice an entire species just to drill for planet-warming, polluting fossil fuels.

Clearly, Rice’s whales need protection — and that’s where you can help. By sending a message today, you can show your U.S. House representative that there’s broad public support for protecting these endangered whales.