MENDOCINO CO., 9/21/25 – The number of large whale entanglements off U.S. coasts jumped sharply in 2024, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported Thursday.
NOAA confirmed 95 cases last year, a 48% increase from 64 entanglements in 2023 and well above the 17-year annual average of 71.4.
Humpbacks, commonly seen in off the Mendocino Coast, accounted for more than 70% of cases nationwide. Other species reported included fin, sperm, minke and gray whales.
California’s coast had the highest share of entanglements, 25% of the total, with Monterey Bay being a hot spot because of its popularity as a feeding area, NOAA said. No confirmed entanglements were reported off the Mendocino Coast.
Most entanglements were linked to commercial or recreational fishing gear, which can hinder whales’ ability to feed, swim and breathe. Some whales free themselves, but others remain trapped for weeks or months, sometimes fatally.
The U.S. Large Whale Entanglement Response Network, made up of federal, state, tribal and nonprofit experts, responds to reports of entanglements, most of which come from the public. In 2024, the network responded to 37 of 87 live-whale reports, fully or partially freeing 11. Four whales disentangled themselves, though one later died.
The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito is one of the nonprofits in the network. Its director of cetacean conservation biology, Kathi George, said collaboration is key.
“Progress comes through partnerships between federal, state, tribal agencies, fishers, researchers, and conservation organizations,” she said. “Together, we can apply the best available science to reduce the risk of entanglement.”
The type of fishing gear also plays a role. Whale entanglements are the main reason Dungeness crab season is often delayed or shortened, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. CDFW has expanded trials of pop-up crabbing gear, which is considered safer for whales, and plans regulations authorizing statewide use starting in 2026.
Ben Grundy, oceans campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity, urged quicker action.
“It’s horrifying to see these iconic animals killed and injured by the dozen when we know pop-up fishing gear can help prevent entanglements,” Grundy said. “This is a red alert for state agencies and federal officials.”
NOAA also reported that untrained members of the public attempted to disentangle eight whales in 2024, one of which died. Officials urged people not to intervene and instead report cases to trained responders.
In California, entanglements can be reported to (877) SOS-WHALE, (877) 767-9425, or the U.S. Coast Guard.