Whales & Coastal Dolphins
Whales and coastal dolphins are some of the earth’s most iconic species. For centuries, these charismatic marine mammals have captivated people. And through time, humans have nearly caused the extinction of many of them. Today, some species and populations are showing promising signs of recovery, while others remain depleted. Plus, a new set of 21st century challenges has arisen.
2.9 million whales
An estimated 2.9 million whales were killed between 1900 and 1999.
300,000 dolphins and porpoises
About 300,000 dolphins and porpoises are killed each year as a result of bycatch.

Why WCS?
15 of 18
Of the 18 threatened coastal dolphin species, 15 are found in waters where WCS works. Similarly, of the 19 great whale species, we work directly on programs to save 14.
13,988 miles
Whales generally migrate great distances, including the longest mammalian journey on record—13,988 miles by a gray whale that migrated from the Arctic to tropical breeding areas and back. WCS conservation scientists have used advanced technologies to track humpback whales and southern right whales through vast stretches of the world’s oceans, gathering key information to inform conservation strategies.
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July 3, 2019
"King of Fish," Endangered Dolphins, Sharks, Turtles Protected in Sweeping New Marine Protected Area
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View All News
Periods of Ice-Free Arctic Seas Could Bring More Ocean Noise in Changing Marine Habitats
Scientists examining levels of ocean noise in the Bering Sea—an important migratory seascape for whales, walruses, seals, and other acoustically sensitive animals—have confirmed that the presence of sea ice plays a central role in the soundscape...
Read the story"King of Fish," Endangered Dolphins, Sharks, Turtles Protected in Sweeping New Marine Protected Area
The Government of Bangladesh announced the declaration of the Nijhum Dwip Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the northern Bay of Bengal to safeguard critical spawning grounds for the country’s most valuable fish species and some of the world’s largest...
Read the storyWCS Commends Governor Cuomo for Plastic Bag Ban
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) applauds Governor Cuomo and the New York State Senate and Assembly for their leadership in banning single-use plastic bags in this year’s budget.
Read the storyWe Stand for Wildlife
Join more than one million wildlife lovers working to save the Earth's most treasured and threatened species.
