In its global assessment of cetacean species, released last month, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) concluded that ocean noise posed a significant threat. Noise generated by ships’ engines and propellers, and by seismic airguns used in oil and gas exploration, produces a range of frequencies that can interfere with both these groups of species, IFAW also concludes. This is not the first report to raise the threat posed by ocean noise, and it will not be the last. View details.
Humpback population shows signs of recovery
Rex Dalton
Humpback whale numbers in the northern Pacific Ocean have ballooned to nearly 20,000, the largest population seen since the majestic mammals were hunted nearly to extinction half a century ago.
The number of humpbacks hit an all-time low of 1,400 or even lower by 1966, when their hunting was banned internationally.
Research from Keto found intense boat traffic in Drake Bay and Caño Island negatively affects spotted dolphins’ behaviours in this area. Complete Report.
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