Annual summary reports of strandings of cetaceans (whales) and pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) that occurred in Alaskan waters and were reported to NOAA Fisheries, Alaska Region.
During 2018, there were 19 reports of cetaceans with human-caused injuries, including 4 humpback whales involved in vessel collisions, 11 humpback whales entangled in presumed fishing gear or marine debris and 4 other cetaceans with human-caused injuries.
Each year, NOAA Fisheries collects, verifies, documents, and responds to reports of large whale entanglements. The 2019 U.S. West Coast reports, and other relevant information and developments are included in this summary.
