SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – Whale Week for Savannah is here, and the Coastal Empire is highlighting some of the ocean's most endangered species - North Atlantic Right Whales.
Georgia's coast isn't just a winter getaway for us - it's a critical nursery for the right whales. The season's first calves appeared this week just in time for Whale Week which officially begins today.
One of the calves returning to Georgia's waters is a 31-year-old whale with her fifth calf spotted near Sapelo Island. These warm coastal waters are vital breeding grounds for the species, but whales face significant threats including ship strikes.
Whale Week brings the community together and educates residents about their aquatic neighbors.
First Right Whale calves spotted for the 2024-2025 season
"We hope to have as many births as last year. Ten babies were born last year, unfortunately two were lost before they got home. So, that is the reason we have something called Whale Week.
We celebrate Whale Week with the public," said Chantal Audran, the Executive Director of Tybee Marine Science Center.
With fewer than 370 right whales remaining, every event this week will bring attention on ways to protect them. Events will happen daily and be at the Tybee Marine Science Center, Starland Yard Friday, and Forsyth Park on Saturday. A highlight includes a skull unveiling.
As whale week sails on, remember it's not just about celebration, it's about education. For more information, click here.
Some of the multiple events are included below:
Monday: Right Whale to Save: calf skull unveiling. 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. @ Tybee Marine Science Center
Tuesday: Saving the Right Whale: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. @ Savannah Cultural Center
Wednesday: Whale Week at the Science Center 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. @ Tybee Marine Science Center
Thursday: Whales and Women 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. @ Ocean Discovery Center
Friday: Smoke goes to Starland Yard 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. @ Starland Yard
Saturday: Smoke goes to Forsyth Park 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. @ Forsyth Park