Right Whale Dies Off North Carolina Coast After Fishing Gear Entanglement

The 4-year-old male whale was last seen alive on January 21 with signs of declining health.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A right whale carcass was spotted 25 miles off the Avon coast in North Carolina, according to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The 4-year-old male whale was last seen alive on January 21 with visible signs of declining health, including patches of whale lice. Experts say the whale had become entangled in fishing gear in early December 2025, which led to a partial disentanglement effort but ultimately resulted in the whale's death.

Why it matters

Right whales are an endangered species, with only around 400 remaining in the wild. Entanglement in fishing gear is a leading cause of death for these whales, highlighting the need for better protections and gear modifications to prevent such tragic incidents.

The details

The whale was first spotted entangled on December 3, 2025, with fishing line cutting into its blowhole after wrapping around its head and mouth. Experts started a partial disentanglement effort, but poor conditions prevented them from fully freeing the whale. The whale's health significantly declined in the weeks leading up to its death.

  • The whale was last spotted alive on January 21, 2026, off the coast of Cape Hatteras.
  • The whale was first seen entangled on December 3, 2025.

The players

National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

The federal agency responsible for monitoring and protecting the nation's oceans, coasts, and marine life.

New England Aquarium

A non-profit organization that conducts research and conservation efforts for marine species, including right whales.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing threat of fishing gear entanglement to endangered right whales, and the need for continued collaboration between scientists, fishermen, and policymakers to find solutions that protect these majestic creatures while also supporting sustainable fishing practices.