JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Mark your calendars for a meaningful and creative event: the Right Whale Mosaic Project!
Join the community on Jan. 25 at 10 a.m. at Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach for a unique opportunity to create a life-size North Atlantic right whale mosaic art installation using oyster shells.
Curated by local artist and shell collector Lauri Holton, this project promises to be both inspiring and impactful.
The North Atlantic right whale, one of the most endangered marine mammals, faces a precarious future. With fewer than 350 individuals remaining, raising awareness about their plight has never been more crucial.
Why this event matters
Now is a critical time of year when these majestic creatures migrate to the warmer waters off the coasts of Florida and Georgia to give birth.
From November through March, this region serves as the only known calving grounds for the species, making it a hub of conservation activity and a focal point for awareness efforts.
Every single female North Atlantic right whale and calf is vital to the species’ recovery. Researchers estimate about 70 reproductively active females remain, and this season, five calves have already been identified.
These whales are dying faster than they can reproduce, largely due to human causes such as entanglements in fishing gear and collisions with vessels. Since 2017, an Unusual Mortality Event has claimed more than 20% of the population, leaving many whales sick, injured or dead.
Females are producing fewer calves each year, impacted by stressors like vessel strikes, entanglements, and changes in prey availability due to climate change.
While 20 newborns in a season would be considered productive, researchers estimate that 50 or more calves per year are needed for recovery.
Reducing human-caused mortality and injuries is crucial to reversing this decline.
By participating in the Right Whale Mosaic Project, you can help shed light on these challenges and support the conservation efforts necessary to protect these gentle giants.
How you can help
To make this mosaic a reality, thousands of oyster shells are needed, and that’s where the community comes in! Here’s how you can contribute:
- Collect gray oyster shells: Search local beaches for gray oyster shells and bring them with you to the event. Please note that freshly shucked shells cannot be accepted due to their sharp edges.
- Join the mosaic creation: Roll up your sleeves and take part in assembling the mosaic. All ages and skill levels are welcome, making this a perfect activity for families, friends and individuals alike.
- Spread the word: Share this event with your community to encourage more people to participate. The more shells collected, the closer to completing this stunning tribute to the right whale.
Event details
- Date: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025
- Time: 10 a.m.
- Location: Main Beach Park, Fernandina Beach