A North Atlantic right whale mother and her calf were spotted near the Space Coast this week, marking one of the rarest sightings of the endangered species in the region. The encounter, observed by local boaters and confirmed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, has sparked interest among marine biologists and conservationists. "It’s a significant event," said FWC spokeswoman Sarah Mitchell. "These whales are critically endangered, and sightings like this help us track their movements." The mother and calf were seen approximately 15 miles off the coast of Cocoa Beach, an area not typically frequented by the species. North Atlantic right whales are usually found in the Gulf of Maine and the waters off Canada, but climate change and shifting ocean currents have altered their migration patterns in recent years. The calf, estimated to be less than six months old, was described as healthy and active during the sighting. Local wildlife officials have urged residents and boaters to maintain a safe distance from the whales to avoid disturbing them. "Speed restrictions are in place in the area," Mitchell added. "We want to ensure the whales can feed and travel without human interference." The sighting comes as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and protect the species, which has fewer than 350 individuals remaining worldwide. Researchers believe the Space Coast’s waters may be becoming a new feeding ground for the whales, though more data is needed to confirm this trend. The FWC plans to conduct additional surveys in the coming weeks to study the whales’ behavior and habitat use. For now, the mother and calf have disappeared from the area, leaving behind a brief but important reminder of the fragility of marine ecosystems.