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Surviving newborns of Right Whale hit record high

The Right Whale is one of the world's most-endangered mammals

(CNN) -- This is a banner year for one of the world's most-endangered mammals -- the Northern Right Whale of the North Atlantic.

After counting the newborns off the Florida and Georgia coasts, researchers are excited to find 24 surviving babies.

The whale's population is estimated at about 350.

"This population of Right Whales is one of the most-endangered populations of large mammals anywhere in the world," said Chris Slay from the New England Aquarium. "This is our White Rhino. This is our Giant Panda."

Scientists say the baby boom may stem from the rich summer plankton production and pre-natal nutrition.

CNN's Natalie Pawelski has more.

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March 18, 1999
Right whales in the wrong place
March 4, 1999
Researchers: Right whales unusually scarce off Southeast Coast
February 2, 1999
Brazil approves first whale sanctuary
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Whales on the Net
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
New England Aquarium
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