Northern smooth whales are considered the rarest on the planet, they are listed in the Red Book as an endangered species. But they can disappear altogether, warn biologists, according to the portal "Around the World" with reference to the Daily Mail.

Today, there are about 450 individuals of this species, while their numbers continue to fall. In 2017, 17 whales were killed, and now there is not a single cub.

Whales produce offspring from November to February, and usually in the herd appears about 17 calves. Last year, the number of newborns declined to five, and in this - there were no babies at all.

Of the 450 animals of this species, only 100 are females of reproductive age, they will be able to have babies for another 20 years, no more, says marine biologist Mark Bomgartner.

Northern smooth whales in captivity survive to 70 years, but in nature they die long before this age. The main reason is commercial fishing, treacherous traps for crabs and lobsters, placed by fishermen off the coast of Canada and New England (USA).

These giants are easily entangled in networks and often die, unable to free themselves.

At the same time, several individuals perish each year from collisions with vessels, especially the inexperienced young.

Northern smooth whales reach a length of 14-20 meters and gain weight to 64 tons. They feed on phytoplankton and eat about 2500 kg daily. The Giants sail to the shores of Georgia and Florida to produce offspring, and then migrate to the north. The female has a baby for more than a year. Toddlers feed on mother's milk for another 9-12 months.