Maia McGuire, Florida Sea Grant Associate Director for Extension and Education
As some readers know, I was the UF/IFAS Extension Sea Grant agent for Flagler County from 2001-2020. Last year, I moved into a statewide role as Florida Sea Grant’s Associate Director for Extension and Education. We are hoping to fill the Flagler County position sometime this spring. Until we do that, I will submit the occasional marine-related story to the News-Tribune.
This week I would like to share some information about North Atlantic right whales (NARWs). Some of you may be aware that the NARW is considered critically endangered, with a population that is estimated to comprise about 400 individuals. These large (50 foot long) baleen whales have been the focus of much attention, especially over the past 20 years or so, as researchers have tried to learn more about the species in order to better protect it.