Wednesday, 2 July 2025

Humpback whale injured in Glacier Bay after suspected vessel strike

A well-known adult humpback whale was found injured near Willoughby Island in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska, on June 27, 2025. The whale had a deep, one-foot gash behind its dorsal fin, likely caused by a propeller strike from a medium to large vessel. Despite the injury, the whale was still diving and behaving normally when last observed. This particular whale has been regularly seen in Glacier Bay and Icy Strait since 2013. It was last documented in good health on June 16, 2025. This is the third reported vessel strike in the area this year. Another adult whale was recently found with a similar injury. In 2024, there were several whale-vessel collisions, two of which were fatal for the whales. Officials are urging mariners to follow whale protection rules: Speed limits of under 13 knots in whale-populated waters. 10 knots maximum when within 1/4 nautical mile of a whale. Vessel restrictions within 1 mile of shore in lower Glacier Bay where whales feed. The National Park Service is asking for public assistance with information about the incident.

Humpback whale injured in Glacier Bay after suspected vessel strike (National Park Service).

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