In a rare sighting, Kristinn Skulason, the regional manager at Quinlan Brothers Ltd., observed a North Atlantic right whale near Bay de Verde in Newfoundland’s Conception Bay. Skulason, who has been in the area for 28 years, was amazed by the whale’s close proximity to the shore, a sight uncommon in the harbor. He captured photos and videos of the whale, later identified as Goldfish, and shared them on social media.
The sighting of Goldfish, last spotted in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in 2023, drew attention from experts in the whale community. Brett Gilchrist from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans confirmed the whale’s identity, highlighting the extensive range of right whales from Iceland to the Gulf of Mexico. These whales are known to gather in Canada for copepods, a crucial food source, often congregating in the Bay of Fundy or the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Despite the usual closure of fishing areas to protect right whales from gear entanglements, no such measures were implemented in this instance since the whale was a solitary visitor to the region. DFO issued a “notice of vigilance” to urge fish harvesters in the area to exercise caution. Sightings like this in less common locations are managed on a case-by-case basis.
North Atlantic right whales, distinct for their large size, slow movement, and dark coloration, are baleen whales with short fins. If anyone spots a right whale, they are encouraged to document details such as date, time, location, behavior, and take photographs while maintaining a safe distance. Regulations prohibit approaching these animals closely. The unique sighting of Goldfish near Skulason’s office window serves as a reminder of the diverse marine life in the region.