A ship strike, also referred to as a vessel strike is when is a collision between any type of boat and marine animal, including whales, dolphins, sea turtles, fish, seals, or sea lions. Vessels of any shape or size could strike, kill or even injure marine animals. All species of marine mammals are at risk of vessel strike, including and especially large whales. According to a research study conducted by Non-profit NGO Friend of the Sea, a whopping 12,000 whales are killed annually due to ship strikes and this is a very alarming situation taking into consideration the fact that whale species such as the North Atlantic Right whale, orcas, blue whales, sperm whales, humpback whale and many more. Another disturbing factor caused by ship strikes is the underwater noise created by shipping can stop whales from being able to communicate with each other and can interfere with their navigation, causing them to be disoriented or isolated from the rest of their group. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds may even result in hearing loss or injury. To avoid underwater noise, whales or dolphins may leave areas where food is plentiful, or the calm waters that offer protection for nursing their young. When this happens, whales and their calves may lose out on opportunities to feed or rest and gain strength, putting their long-term survival at risk as said by WWF. Some of the ways to avoid ship strikes are to keep a sharp lookout, carefully watch the speed of the vessel when entering a populated area, keep distance, communicate, and slow your boat immediately if any animal is spotted
