Gray whales are dying in San Francisco Bay at an alarming rate – this isn’t normal

In the past, the gray whale population recovered fairly quickly. But data on baby whales show that isn’t happening, and a new study finds an alarmingly high mortality rate.

By: Josie Slaathaug, Sonoma State University and Daniel Crocker, Sonoma State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 13, 2026

Words: 1,067

Last Updated: 3 months, 2 weeks ago

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By Josie Slaathaug, Sonoma State University and Daniel Crocker, Sonoma State University

At least six gray whales have died in San Francisco Bay from mid-March to early April 2026. These deaths follow a pattern over the past few years, and they are raising concerns among marine biologists like us that 2026 is becoming another dangerous year for a struggling population.

The majority of eastern North Pacific gray whales migrate closely along the …

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