Right whales are baby boomers

The endangered North Atlantic right whale population, battered by the deaths of four whales in the last six weeks, is enjoying a mini-baby boom.

Thirteen whales have been born since the calving season began in mid-December, according to Tony LaCasse at the New England Aquarium, which tracks the births.

The total nearly equals the 16 born during the entire 2004 calving season. The season continues until March.

“We