Right Whales The North Atlantic Right Whale is among the most endangered species on earth. About 350 animals are left. But they're being killed by two human threats: Strikes from speeding ships, and entanglement in tons of discarded fishing gear. While the outlook is dire, there is dedication and creativity among scientists, anglers, the U.S. military, and volunteers to save the remaining right whales in the waters off New England, south to the coasts of Georgia and Florida.