Occurrence and anthropogenic-derived mortality of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) along the northern coast of Argentina, 2003–2021

Abstract

Sightings and strandings of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) along the coast of Buenos Aires Province in Argentina were once sporadic but have increased by up to 640% since 2018. Here, we assess the trends and seasonality of occurrence and anthropogenic-derived mortality in this population between 2003 and 2021. Most of the humpback whales found dead were young animals, and 27% of the stranded whales showed signs of anthropogenic interactions. The information collected from Buenos Aires Province over the past two decades clearly indicates that humpback whales are becoming more frequent and growing in numbers along the Argentinean coast. For their protection, governmental regulations need to be implemented as soon as possible.