Transport Canada says there were 4,711 ships affected by the speed limit in the Gulf between Aug. 11 and Jan. 11, when the speed limit was lifted. In total, 17 right whales died last summer off the east coasts of Canada and the United States, a significant loss for one of the most endangered species in the world. There are believed to be just 451 right whales left in the world. In addition to the speed limit there were restrictions placed on some fisheries to try and keep whales from getting caught up in their lines. Kristen Monsell, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity in the United States, said slowing down ships is a proven and effective way to protect whales.

Source: National Post January 19, 2018 21:22 UTC