Critically endangered whales spotted off Boca Grande

BOCA GRANDE, Fla.—Andre Lawrence, a local fisherman, experienced an unforgettable moment while out on the water near Boca Grande. He and his companions initially thought they saw a tree, but soon realized they were looking at two massive whales.

"I saw these two big black objects in the water, and I believe it was a tree at the time," said Lawrence. "So told my buddies, let's go fishing by the tree. See if we hit triple tails out there."

As they approached, it became clear the "tree" was actually two whales.

"Got closer to it, end up being two big old whales," said Lawrence.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) identified the whales as a North Atlantic Right Whale, known as Catalog #3520, and her calf. These whales are critically endangered and rarely seen near the shore.

According to the FWC, "Yes, that is a North Atlantic Right Whale. The right whale is a mother and her calf, and they were seen off Boca Grande, Florida. The whale has been identified as Catalog #3520 and is a 21-year-old whale, and this is her third calf."

Andre Lawrence and his son, Brantley, were thrilled by the encounter.

"It was magical. That was a magical experience," said Lawrence.

Boaters in the area are advised to stay at least 500 yards away from any whales they spot and to slow down to avoid disturbing them. The FWC emphasizes that you should not follow or approach these animals.

Right whales, which can grow up to 50 feet long and weigh 100,000 pounds, migrate annually to calving grounds off the coasts of Georgia and Florida. Their presence nearshore is a rare and vulnerable time for them, making it crucial for boaters to be cautious.

The FWC requests that any sightings be reported to 877-WHALE-HELP (877-942-5343).

Beachgoers are also urged to keep a lookout for these whales from shore, as they are known to approach within a few hundred yards of the beach. Approaching them in small watercraft, such as kayaks or paddleboards, is discouraged due to the potential danger posed by the whales' size and unpredictable movements.