The latest estimate for the North Atlantic right whale population stands at 372, including 12 calves. While the steep decline has slowed, the species remains critically endangered, still facing serious threats from vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglements. The IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is taking action by working with fishing communities on innovative on-demand gear to reduce entanglements and developing methods to treat injured whales at sea. Additionally, IFAW performs necropsies to inform better policies for the species’ recovery.
The situation remains urgent, and IFAW continues to push for stronger regulations and immediate solutions to ensure the survival of this species. Read more HERE.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene and the approaching Hurricane Milton, IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is actively responding to the needs of animals and communities. With Milton, a Category 5 storm, set to hit Florida, IFAW remains on the ground in North Carolina and Georgia, aiding shelters and providing resources for evacuees and displaced animals. IFAW has also supported shelters in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, equipping them with hurricane kits. As a member of the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition, IFAW continues to play a key role in coordinating disaster response, rescue efforts, and long-term recovery to help rebuild lives and protect animals.

IFAW‘s marine mammal rescue team faced their largest challenge yet on June 28th, responding to a massive dolphin stranding off Cape Cod. What initially began as a report of 10 dolphins quickly escalated to over 125 stranded in Wellfleet’s Herring River ‘Gut’. Despite the daunting numbers, the team, supported by 70 volunteers and several organisations, tirelessly worked to save as many dolphins as possible. Efforts continued as dolphins were guided out of shallow waters and monitored for their safety. Tragically, some dolphins could not be saved, but many were successfully returned to the open sea. The team’s dedication, coupled with community support, underscores IFAW’s commitment to marine life conservation.

Kenya’s 600 kms of coastline support local livelihoods through fishing and tourism and play a vital role in carbon sequestration. However, increased marine transport, overexploitation, climate change, and pollution have led to a rise in marine mammal strandings, with 17 cases reported in 2024 alone. In response, IFAW held Kenya’s first marine mammal rescue workshop. The workshop trained 40 local participants, including fishermen and marine park rangers, in best practices for whale and dolphin rescue. Participants learned practical techniques for safely disentangling whales using grapples and buoys. This training empowers local communities to protect marine life and sustain their livelihoods, fostering a sustainable future for both the environment and the people.