California turns to AI as whale deaths spike

California turns to AI as whale deaths spike

https://lookout.co/california-turns-to-ai-as-whale-deaths-spike/story

Publish Date: 2026-05-21 06:30:00

Source Domain: lookout.co

• Launch of WhaleSpotter Network: An AI-powered detection network named WhaleSpotter has been launched to track whales day and night in the San Francisco Bay in response to a notable rise in gray whale deaths.

• Increased Whale Deaths: The number of gray whale deaths in the San Francisco Bay Area has surged, with 21 dead whales found last year, the highest in 25 years; many more likely died but were never found or reported.

• Rise of Whales in Bay: Growing numbers of gray whales are now staying in the San Francisco Bay due to climate change, disrupting their usual migration pattern, and increasing collision risks with ships.

• Technological Monitoring: WhaleSpotter uses thermal cameras to scan for whale blows and heat signatures up to 2 nautical miles away, providing real-time alerts to mariners and helping to avoid collisions.

• Continuous Whale Monitoring: Unlike human observers, the WhaleSpotter’s thermal cameras can monitor whales continuously, even during the night and in foggy conditions, which improves safety around the bay.

• Impact of Warmer Oceans: As warming ocean temperatures affect whale prey, not only gray whales but also humpback whales are facing increased risks, such as entanglements in fishing gear.

• Adaptation and Future Plans: Researchers hope to expand WhaleSpotter’s coverage using installations on ferries and bridge towers, while new whale-safe fishing technologies are being developed to mitigate the hazards whales face along the coast.

• Ongoing Threat: Despite technological advancements, as climate change continues to alter ocean conditions and wildlife movements, the coexistence between human activities and whale migrations remains complex and challenging.