A critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, identified as No. 5192, has survived multiple encounters with fishing gear despite being listed as near death by federal authorities for several years. The whale, now five years old, was most recently observed tangled in fishing equipment off Barnegat Inlet, New Jersey, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Researchers have tracked No. 5192 since December 2022, when the whale was about one year old and first recorded with injuries consistent with fishing gear entanglement near southern New England. These injuries prompted NOAA to add the whale to its Whale Morbidity Case list, which monitors individuals suffering from life-threatening conditions. Despite this, the whale has shown remarkable resilience, continuing to swim and grow over the past four years.

In 2023, No. 5192 was seen again by researchers, initially appearing to swim freely before becoming entangled once more in fishing line. This whale has traveled roughly 700 miles along the East Coast during this period, prompting concern from conservationists and federal responders.

NOAA spokesperson Ava DiFabritiis confirmed the sighting off New Jersey on October 10 and stated that stranding network partners and survey teams along the coast have been alerted to assist in monitoring the whale’s condition. Rescue teams have not reported any sightings since that date, raising concerns about the whale’s status.

DiFabritiis emphasized ongoing efforts to work with trained entanglement responders to track and document the case. She also urged the public to report any sightings while maintaining a safe distance to avoid further distress or injury to the animal.

The survival of No. 5192 spotlights the ongoing threats faced by North Atlantic right whales, a species critically endangered due in large part to entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes. NOAA’s efforts aim to mitigate these risks and protect the remaining population, which numbers fewer than 400 individuals.