Home >> Science & Nature >> Animals & Science

Ways to Save Humpback Whales

Humpback whales are not the most critically endangered species of whale but they still need protection. Although large-scale commercial hunting of whales has reduced greatly since the end of the 20th century, some whaling, including of humpbacks, still occurs. Humpbacks and other whales also face other problems. Their ocean habitat is vulnerable and if pollution or other problems kill off a food supply, the whales go too. Individuals can do plenty to help save them. Helping to protect the whale habitat might not be as immediately exciting as taking direct action to stop whaling but it is just as important.

Sustainable Seafood
- Humans don't normally eat the plankton and tiny fish that humpback whales feed on. However the ocean ecosystems are interlinked, and impacts on one species trickles down to all the rest. The easiest first step for most people in protecting the oceans is to choose sustainable fish and other seafood. Overfishing and unsustainable fish farming practices are two crucial issues affecting the seas. If you eat fish, print out one of the wallet-sized guides and take it with you when you go shopping. Guides for North America are available from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and ones for the UK and the rest of Europe from the Marine Conservation Society.
Water Pollution
- Common household cleaning products contribute to the pollution of the world's oceans. Some of them contain chemicals toxic to marine life, while others, such as phosphate detergent, contain an excess of nutrients. Too many nutrients in the water cause algal blooms and in turn ocean dead zones where very little can live, including the plankton humpbacks depend upon. To play your part in solving the problem, use the smallest quantities of cleaning products possible, use natural alternatives such as baking soda and select the "green" versions when shopping.
Ecotourism
- Whale watching is generally a positive thing. People have an experience that motivates them to protect the animals and the revenue is a valid economic alternative to whaling. The money the whales bring in demonstrates to decision makers how valuable the animals are while alive, and the importance of making sure they continue to thrive. Humpbacks are one of the most exciting whales to watch, especially during the breeding season, when the males put on dramatic displays. Occasionally whale watching can be problematic. If the boat you are on gets too close to the whales, it disturbs them and interferes with their natural breeding, feeding and socializing. A tour boat should not get closer than 100 yards. If yours does, report it to the appropriate authorities, usually the Coastguard or equivalent. Also report any other boats you see getting to close to the whales or speeding around them.
Campaigning
- If you want to become more directly involved in the fight to save the whales, join a conservation group. You can become involved with letter writing campaigns to stop whaling, local pressure to stop developments damaging to whales or an array of fundraising and educational initiatives.

Animals & Science