A new whale detection network launches in San Francisco Bay, alerting ships in real time
A new AI-powered whale detection network called WhaleSpotter has been launched in San Francisco Bay to help protect gray whales. The system alerts ships in real time to the presence of whales, aiming to reduce ship strikes that have contributed to a significant rise in whale deaths. This initiative comes as climate change drives more gray whales into the bay, where they face increased risks from maritime traffic.
- ▪WhaleSpotter scans the bay for whale blows and heat signatures, alerting mariners to slow down or reroute.
- ▪Last year, 21 dead gray whales were found in the Bay Area, with at least 40% killed by ship strikes.
- ▪The eastern North Pacific gray whale population has decreased by half over the last 10 years, with only 13,000 remaining.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onA new whale detection network launches in San Francisco Bay, alerting ships in real timeClimate change is pushing starving gray whales into the San Francisco Bay in unusual numbers, where ship strikes killed at least 40% of the 21 whales found dead last yearByANNIKA HAMMERSCHLAG Associated PressMay 20, 2026, 12:38 AM1:28A tanker and other vessels pass through the San Francisco Bay, Tuesday, May 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Annika Hammerschlag)The Associated PressSAN FRANCISCO, Calif.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News — US.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from ABC News — US
