In a troubling development for the already endangered North Atlantic right whale population, authorities have reported the sighting of an entangled whale off the coast of New England. With fewer than 360 individuals left, these majestic creatures are at risk of entanglement in fishing gear and collisions with ships.

The entangled whale was spotted on Wednesday approximately 50 miles south of Rhode Island's Block Island, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Distressingly, the mammal has rope protruding from both sides of its mouth. However, rescuers are facing difficulties due to the whale's remote location.

Given the significant distance from the shore, experts were unable to safely travel to the last known location during daylight in an attempt to rescue the distressed whale. In a statement, the NOAA revealed their intent to closely monitor the whale and respond if possible, depending on weather conditions and safety considerations.

This latest incident follows a series of deaths among the right whale population off Georgia and Massachusetts earlier this year, heightening concerns among environmental groups about the species' potential path to extinction. In January, a deceased whale found off Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, showed signs of entanglement-related injuries.

Environmental organizations have been advocating for stricter regulations to protect the right whales. However, a federal budget package recently passed included a six-year pause on new federal whale regulations, perpetuating concerns about their future.

Gib Brogan, campaign director with environmental group Oceana, emphasized the urgency of stronger protections, stating, "This is another example that entanglements are happening in US waters. We need stronger protections."

Once abundant along the East Coast, the North Atlantic right whale population was decimated during the era of commercial whaling and has been slow to recover despite decades of federal protection. These whales undertake an annual migration from calving grounds off Florida and Georgia to feeding grounds in New England and Canada. However, the journey has become increasingly perilous due to the changing climate. Warm waters associated with the climate crisis are causing shifts in the whales' food sources, pushing them out of protected areas and making them vulnerable to entanglements and collisions.

A study published last year highlighted the acute endangerment of the North Atlantic right whale due to climate change-induced warming in the Gulf of Maine. As the situation for these iconic creatures grows more dire, urgent action is needed to ensure their survival and secure a future for this critically endangered species.