Most People Don’t Know This Whale Exists #Whale #Ocean #Nature #Wildlife #Documentary

Rice's whale (Balaenoptera ricei) was only recognized as a distinct species in 2021. Fewer than 51 individuals are believed to remain, making it one of the most critically endangered large mammals on the planet. Their only known habitat — the deep waters of the northeastern Gulf of Mexico — overlaps directly with active oil and gas operations, heavy vessel traffic, and chronic marine debris zones.