report a Dead whale

Please help collect vital information by documenting and reporting these critical sightings. Dead whales typically float belly up and can be very difficult to to identify. Closely examine the carcass for signs of injury. Video and/or photos are extremely valuable, especially close-ups of the tailstock, flukes, flippers, and injuries.
WHO SHOULD YOU CALL?
​
U.S. Coast Guard VHF Ch. 16
or 
Virginia to Maine: 866-755-NOAA
Florida to North Carolina: 877-WHALE-HELP

​Federal regulations prohibit approaching right whales within 500 yards (1500 feet).
What Information Should You Report? 
  • Your name, vessel name, and contact information
  • Date, time, and location of sighting (latitude and longitude if possible)
  • A detailed description of the whale including:
    • How many feet long is the whale (use size of boat for comparison)?
    • Can you tell whether the whale has a dorsal fin or a smooth back?
    • What color is the whale? What color, shape, and length are the flippers?
    • What color and shape are the tail flukes? Are the edges ragged-looking or smooth? Are there barnacles on the attached?
    • Does it have bumps on its head? If so, what color are they?
    • DO you see throat grooves (under the mouth extending to the belly)?
    • Are there signs if injury?
    • Are there lines or pieces of gear? If so, give specific information (buoys and line colors, buoy numbers, etc). Do NOT attempt to remove the gear!
    • Give specific information on key body parts (both flippers, tail, and mouth).