Critically Endangered:
* North Atlantic Right Whale: Only around 340 individuals remain, facing threats from ship strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and habitat degradation.
* Vaquita: With less than 10 individuals left, this porpoise-like whale is critically endangered due to illegal gillnet fishing in the Gulf of California.
* Western Gray Whale: Although the eastern gray whale population has recovered, the western population is facing threats like entanglement and habitat loss. Only around 130 individuals remain.
* Southern Right Whale: Although numbers have increased somewhat, they still face threats from entanglement, habitat loss, and climate change.
Endangered:
* Blue Whale: Although the population has rebounded from historic lows, they face threats like entanglement, habitat loss, and ocean noise pollution.
* Humpback Whale: Although numbers have increased, they still face threats like entanglement, ship strikes, and habitat loss.
* Fin Whale: The second largest whale, they face threats from entanglement, ship strikes, and ocean noise pollution.
* Sei Whale: Their population is still recovering from whaling, and they face threats like entanglement, ship strikes, and ocean noise pollution.
* Sperm Whale: This species is hunted for its oil and faces threats from entanglement, habitat loss, and ocean noise pollution.
Near Threatened:
* Minke Whale: While not currently endangered, this species is vulnerable to threats from entanglement, ship strikes, and climate change.
Important Notes:
* Conservation efforts are making a difference: These species are listed as endangered due to the ongoing threats, but ongoing conservation efforts are crucial for their survival.
* Threats are complex and interconnected: Whales face threats from a combination of factors, including human activities like fishing, shipping, and pollution, as well as climate change and natural disasters.
* This is not an exhaustive list: Many other whale species are considered vulnerable or threatened.
It's important to stay informed about the conservation status of these incredible creatures and support organizations working to protect them.