Second Reef Planting Brings 435,000 Oysters to Ocean County Waters

The Ocean County Soil Conservation District wrapped up its second reef planting in November. Workers deposited 435,000 oysters into Barnegat and Great Bay. Nine shellfish farmers had raised these juveniles on their leases all summer before moving them to two restoration spots. Read more here.

A rare right whale spotted off Ireland resurfaces near Boston

This is the first time a North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) was initially documented in Irish waters; before that, it was unknown to scientists. The whale then crossed the Atlantic Ocean and was confirmed through a photographic match, some 4,800 kilometers (3,000 miles) away near Boston. Read more here.

Tracking data expose bycatch threat to endangered albatrosses

A new international study is shining a spotlight on where commercial fishing and seabirds most often collide – and how ocean science could help prevent thousands of unnecessary deaths each year. Read more here.

Discover China’s ambitious eco project in southern waters

Beneath the waters off Hainan Island, unusual structures rest on the seafloor … shipwreck outlines, engine blocks, even statues. They resemble relics of an ancient civilization, but they’re actually part of one of China’s largest tropical marine conservation programs. Read more here.

Disappearance of white-tailed eagles investigated

The disappearance of three white-tailed eagles who were part of a successful conservation programme is being investigated by police. Read more here.