Gray Whale in Mexico: Concerning Increase in Mortality and Thinness

Why Are Gray Whales Thinner? Causes and Consequences

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Published in 03-28-2025

Gray whales migrating to Mexico have experienced a concerning crisis in recent years. An increase in mortality, severe malnutrition, and a decline in birth rates are affecting the population of this iconic marine species.

High Mortality Among Gray Whales

Between 2019 and 2023, 690 gray whale deaths were recorded along their migration route from Alaska to Baja California Sur. Of these, 316 occurred in Mexican waters. Many of these whales showed signs of starvation and low body weight, indicating a food crisis in their habitat.

Malnutrition and Food Shortages

One of the main factors contributing to gray whale malnutrition is the warming of waters in their Arctic feeding areas, especially in the Bering and Chukchi Seas. These changes have reduced the availability of krill and other benthic crustaceans, essential components of their diet.

Impact of Climate Change

Experts have identified that this mass mortality phenomenon follows a cycle of approximately 20 years. However, this time, climate change is exacerbating the problem by altering marine ecosystems and reducing food availability for gray whales.

The situation of the gray whale in Mexico is alarming. The increase in mortality, malnutrition, and declining birth rates are symptoms of an environmental crisis that must be addressed. Conserving this species requires urgent actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure food availability in the Arctic.

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