by The federal Department of Fisheries is temporarily closing five fishing areas today in an effort to protect endangered right whales.
Waters off western Cape Breton are affected by the shut down.
The move comes after the first North Atlantic right whale of the season was spotted last week in waters off eastern Cape Breton Island.
Fisheries Minister Dominic LeBlanc says two North Atlantic right whales have now been spotted in the Gulf of St. Lawrence off the coast of New Brunswick.
The closures will take effect at 4:00 this afternoon and will remain in place until further notice.
At least 18 North Atlantic right whales were found dead in Canadian and US waters, last year.