3 months, 21 dead gray whales: Why so many carcasses are washing up on Pacific shores
The recent deaths of 21 gray whales along Pacific shores have raised concerns among researchers about the species' declining population. Scientists attribute the issue to changes in the Arctic food supply caused by climate change and melting sea ice. This situation highlights the broader impacts of global warming on marine ecosystems and the challenges faced by gray whales in their natural habitat.
- ▪Since March, 21 dead gray whales have washed up on Washington state shores.
- ▪Researchers believe the decline in gray whale populations is linked to a food supply issue in the Arctic due to climate change.
- ▪Gray whales are experiencing a significant decline after a brief rebound in 2023, indicating a troubling trend rather than a cyclical pattern.
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Environment3 months, 21 dead gray whales: Why so many carcasses are washing up on Pacific shoresMany of the dead whales have appeared thin and weak. Researchers think there’s a problem with their food supply in the Arctic — a result of melting ice.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00A dead gray whale in Oak Harbor, Wash., on May 18.KING-TVShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 25, 2026, 8:00 AM EDTBy Evan BushDead, emaciated gray whales have been washing up on Washington state shores at a shocking pace over the last few months. Since March, 21 whales have turned up dead along the shoreline, according to research biologist John Calambokidis.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.“I am alarmed,” he said.
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