August 27, 2013 — Nova Scotia scientists believe they have located the breeding ground for the endangered North Atlantic right whale in the Gulf of Maine.
The research increases the chances of survival for the species, says conservation biologist Tim Frasier of Saint Mary’s University in Halifax.
"The mating ground is particularly important," said Frasier from his DNA analysis laboratory. "If you want to conserve a species the main animals you want to protect are the ones that are reproducing."
Scientists believe the population of the ponderous mammals has dwindled to fewer than 500.
In recent years, the whales have been killed by entanglement in fishing gear, or by being hit by passing ships.