In the frigid waters of Antarctica, Andrea Bonilla, a Colombian scientist from Cornell University, patiently waits for two humpback whales to emerge, eager to capture their distinctive fluke patterns through photography. Bonilla and her team have been meticulously cataloging these patterns since 2014, using them as “fingerprints” to identify individual whales.
Through visual analysis of the whales’ tails, or flukes, Bonilla and her team have identified 70 whales over the years. These unique markings serve as a historical record, offering insights into migratory patterns, population sizes, health, and sexual maturity.
“The coloration and patterns that each whale has is unique, it is like a fingerprint,” explains Bonilla. By examining these marks and scars, researchers can track individual whales and monitor any physical changes over time.
Despite a global rebound in humpback whale populations after decades of commercial whaling, these ocean giants still face numerous threats such as vessel strikes, illegal fishing, pollution, and underwater noise. With approximately 84,000 adult humpback whales worldwide, conservation efforts remain crucial.
Recent studies, such as one published in the Royal Society Open Science journal, have underscored the importance of fluke identification. This study revealed a 20 percent decline in North Pacific humpback whale populations, attributed to factors like starvation during marine heat waves.
Humpback whales undertake extensive migrations, traversing oceans from warmer breeding spots to polar feeding grounds. Bonilla emphasizes their reliance on polar waters, where they accumulate energy from abundant food sources.
Through detailed photographic analysis, scientists gain valuable insights into humpback whale behavior, diet, and health. This information aids conservation initiatives by identifying crucial habitats that must be protected to ensure the survival of these majestic creatures.
As Bonilla meticulously examines each photograph, she not only captures the beauty of these enormous marine mammals but also contributes to vital research aimed at safeguarding their future.
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