A female right whale, that officials believe is in poor health, was spotted just off the coast of Boca Raton and Jupiter this weekend.
The FWC and NOAA Fisheries Service said they have been monitoring the 27-year-old whale off the coast the last few days.
Officials said its condition has sharply declined, and marine mammal experts believe the prognosis is not good.
They are encouraging boaters to obey the 500-yard distance rule, which is required by law.
A Florida Fish and Wildlife biologist says unless the whale beaches itself it will be left alone.
Violations or harassment to the animal can be reported by calling 1-877-WHALEHELP or contacting the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF channel 16.
