Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 1
COSEWIC Assessment Summary
Assessment Summary – May 2005
Common name : Fin Whale (Pacific population)
Scientific name : Balaenoptera physalus
Status : Threatened
Reason for designation : Currently sighted only infrequently on former whaling grounds off British Columbia. Coastal whaling took at least 7,600 animals from the population between 1905 and 1967, and thousands of additional animals were taken by pelagic whalers through the 1970s. Catch rates from coastal whaling stations declined precipitously off British Columbia in the 1960s. Based on the severe depletion and lack of sufficient time for recovery, it is inferred that present population is below 50% of its level, 60-90 years ago. Individuals continue to be at risk from ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear.
Occurrence : Pacific Ocean
Status history : This species was considered a single unit and designated Special Concern in April 1987. Split into two populations (Atlantic and Pacific) in May 2005. The Pacific population was designated Threatened in May 2005. Last assessment based on an update status report.
Assessment Summary – May 2005
Common name : Fin Whale (Atlantic population)
Scientific name : Balaenoptera physalus
Status : Special Concern
Reason for designation : The size of this population was reduced by whaling during much of the 20th century. However, sightings remain relatively common off Atlantic Canada, and they have not been hunted since 1971. The current abundance and level of depletion compared with pre-whaling numbers are uncertain. The whales face a number of current threats including ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear, but none is believed to seriously threaten the population.
Occurrence : Atlantic Ocean
Status history : This species was considered a single unit and designated Special Concern in April 1987. Split into two populations (Atlantic and Pacific) in May 2005. The Atlantic population was designated Special Concern in May 2005. Last assessment based on an update status report.
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