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Reports on concerns marine biologists have regarding the right whale population. Predictions for the species extinction; How the whales feed in the location of shipping lanes off Massachusetts; Involvement of the United States Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to start doing aerial surveillances to search for whales tangled in fishing lines; Concerns regarding the lower number of calves being born each year; Possible genetic factors.

The article discusses research on bones from grey whales and right whales in the Mediterranean Sea in relation to a possible Roman whaling industry.

The article cites a study conducted by Jon Seger and colleagues of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, which used whale lice living on the bodies of right whales to track the whales' evolutionary history. The genes of the whale lice confirm that North Atlantic, North Pacific and southern right whales are distinct species that split 5 to 6 million years ago when the Pacific and Atlantic oceans divided. Genetic analysis of the lice shows that the different whale species have been almost completely isolated since they split, so much so that each louse species has split into a further three regional species.

Discusses the idea to enforce speed limits on ships in an effort to save right whales from extinction. Study of right whale deaths by David Laist, et al; Rarity of right whales, which are an endangered species.

Focuses on an array of buoys being built to ensure that ships steer clear of endangered whales swimming off the coast of Massachusetts. Number of whales left in the Cape Cod area; Need for tracking of each individual right whale, Eubalaena glacialis.

Focuses on the slow disappearance of the North Atlantic right whale. Reasons for the mammals' disappearance, including being hit by ships; History of the whales which live in the North Atlantic; Details of a study printed in a March 1999 edition of `Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences' by Hal Caswell to determine the survival rate of the whales; Possible United States ship legislation to protect the whales.

Details United States regulations designed to protect endangered northern right whales. Number of right whales remaining; Need for vessels to stay at least 500 yards away from the animals.