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Gray Whale Deaths in San Francisco Bay Surge to 15 in 2025

Authorities have rerouted ferry lanes to protect gray whales after suspected vessel collisions

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Overview

  • Six gray whales washed ashore between May 21 and May 28, bringing the total number of 2025 strandings in the Bay Area to 15.
  • Officials suspect at least three of the recent deaths were caused by vessel strikes as necropsy teams face inaccessible sites and advanced decomposition.
  • The San Francisco Harbor Safety Committee has adjusted ferry lanes using whale‐sighting data to reduce collision risks.
  • Researchers have logged a record 33 individual gray whale sightings this year, with many whales lingering in the bay for over 20 days.
  • A 45% population decline from the 2019–2023 unusual mortality event adds urgency to conservation and monitoring efforts.