Biological Opinion on the Issuance of Scientific Research Permit No. 18059 for Research on Fin and Sei Whales

The purpose of the proposed permit is to allow an exception to the moratoria and prohibition on takes established under the ESA and MMPA in order to allow the applicants to conduct scientific research on ESA-listed fin (Balaenoptera physalus) and sei (Balaenoptera borealis) whales, as well as non-ESA-listed humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) (West Indies Distinct Population Segment (DPS)) and minke (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) whales in the greater Gulf of Maine, in the United States (U.S.) North Atlantic Ocean.