Whale ‘Baby Boom’ Brings Celebration — and Hope — to Fernandina Beach

A record 23 North Atlantic right whale calves were born during the 2025–2026 calving season, marking the highest total in 17 years and offering a rare note of optimism for one of the world’s most endangered marine species.

The calving season, which runs from mid-November through mid-April, typically sees far fewer births. According to Candis Whitney, executive director of the Amelia Island Whale Ambassadors, the total surpasses the threshold the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration considers a “relatively productive year” — about 20 calves.

To celebrate the milestone and the close of the calving season, the Amelia Island Whale Ambassadors hosted a right whale-themed “baby shower” Wednesday evening at the Tigre Island Room in Fernandina Beach.

Whitney said the turnout exceeded expectations.

“It was beyond our wildest dreams,” she said. “Whale folks came in from as far away as Melbourne, Clearwater and Savannah. They brought enthusiasm and tremendous support for our precious North Atlantic right whales.”

Local artists Brian Barnard and Jett Paxton added a creative element to the evening, producing live artwork throughout the event. Barnard painted a right whale, while Paxton carved an ocean-inspired wooden sculpture nearby.