A genetically distinct Mediterranean fin whale population faces welfare threats from ship strikes, noise pollution and entanglement in a heavily trafficked sea.
Fin whales in the Ligurian Sea are exposed to some of the world's busiest shipping lanes while in a protected sanctuary. Ship strike carcasses show evidence of repeated vessel contact before death. Whale-watching vessel interactions, while generating conservation funds, can cause displacement from feeding areas and acoustic disturbance. The welfare of this isolated population depends on reducing ship strike mortality through speed limits and route modifications.