A Dungeness crab in a 2013 California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) photo. The Dungeness crab inhabits eelgrass beds and water bottoms along the west coast of North America and is a popular seafood. A typically crab grows to about 8 inches across the carapace. (California Department of Fish and Wildlife via Bay City News)

In an effort to protect humpback whales from becoming entangled in fishing gear, state officials have announced that commercial Dungeness crab fishing would be closed later this month along the California coast south of San Mateo County.

When the whales, which are now returning to forage off California coasts, become entangled in crab fishing gear that can hinder their ability to swim and feed. Dragging gear can result in injuries, drowning and starvation, according to wildlife officials.

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