EVERY FLUKE IS A FINGERPRINT 🐋 As part of the Around the Americas expedition, we are c…
EVERY FLUKE IS A FINGERPRINT 🐋
As part of the Around the Americas expedition, we are conducting photo identification research on the whales we encounter along the Pacific coast. So far, this includes blue whales, humpback whales, orcas, and sei whales.
One of the most important tools researchers use to identify individual whales is photography of their dorsal fins and flukes. Flukes can help identify certain species and specific whales based off of identifying features such as pigmentation, scarring, trailing edge shape, and barnacle marks.
This information helps scientists monitor populations, observe human impacts, map migration patterns, and track lifespans.
The goal of collecting this data? Real-world action!
This includes the implementation of Marine Protected Areas, enforcement of vessel slow down zones, and targeted conservation strategies. 🌎🌊
Help us continue this vital data collection and support ocean science and education via: https://account.venmo.com/u/oneislandoneocean
(visit the link in our bio for other ways to contribute!)
