Some whale species are recovering well, while others remain endangered and a few are still declining.

Overall, the picture is mixed but considerably better than it was during the era of commercial whaling.

The good news

Many of the large whales that were hunted almost to extinction in the 19th and 20th centuries have shown significant recovery since international whaling restrictions were introduced.

Humpback whales have recovered strongly in many regions and are now considered a conservation success story. Southern right whales are increasing in many parts of the Southern Hemisphere, although recovery rates vary geographically.

Several populations of blue whales are increasing, particularly in parts of the Pacific and North Atlantic, though the species as a whole remains endangered.

The International Whaling Commission reports that a number of whale populations are now stable or increasing after decades of protection.

The concerns

Not all whales are recovering. The North Atlantic right whale is one of the world’s most endangered whales, with a population estimated at about 360 animals in 2022 and a declining trend.

Ship strikes and fishing-gear entanglement are major threats. North Pacific right whales remain extremely rare and show little sign of recovery.

Several whale and dolphin species worldwide continue to face serious threats from fishing gear, habitat degradation, underwater noise, pollution and climate change.

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