Every third Sunday in February, we come together to honour the largest beings on our planet: the whales. This year, World Whale Day falls on February 16, a perfect opportunity to raise awareness about how important they are to our oceans.
Whales are remarkable not just for their size—the blue whale can reach lengths of over 100 feet and weigh as much as 33 elephants—but also because they are warm-blooded mammals that breathe air and suckle their young. These gentle giants navigate the vast blue water, communicate in complex songs and clicks, and live in social groups (like families) called pods.
Within each family pod, whales form very strong social connections. Their pods can vary from a few individuals to large gatherings. Orcas are a great example known for their intricate social structures, enabling each pod member to work together effectively in hunting and caring for their young. But these family bonds also extend beyond mere survival. Studies have shown that whale species can recognise other members of their family and have feelings just like humans. They can learn new behaviours and teach them to other members of their pod. Whales can also solve problems and demonstrate impressive intelligence. For example, humpback whales, like dolphins, have been observed creating bubble nets to trap fish when hunting. They also slap their tails on the water's surface to stun fish and make them easier to catch. Orcas can work together to create waves that wash seals off ice floes. Each method shows how they think and solve problems when hunting for food.
Communication among whales is fascinating. Humpback whales sing enchanting songs that can be heard miles away underwater during mating season. Toothed whales like orcas use echolocation to navigate and hunt, and they can remember individual encounters and songs from previous years.
Despite their incredible nature, whales face significant challenges. Whaling, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change are just a few of the challenges these majestic animals must contend with. People's love for profit continues the practice of commercial whaling in Japan, Norway, and Iceland despite moratoriums. They feel that commercial whaling is justified by the economic benefits it brings. However, we should question how much the whaling industry adds to the economy. The industry runs at a loss in Japan and relies heavily on government subsidies. The demand for whale products is waning among the world's younger generation, who grew up with the message to "Save The Whales". (Perhaps there is hope after all?)
Whales play an essential role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. As apex predators, they help regulate populations of other marine species, ensuring a balanced food chain. Their nutrient-rich poop supports the growth of phytoplankton, which produces a significant portion of the world's oxygen, contributing to the fight against climate change. Each great whale sequesters an estimated 33 tons of CO2. That is why whales are far more valuable alive than they are dead. But people don't see it.
Sadly, six out of the thirteen great whale species are classified as endangered or vulnerable. An estimated 300,000 whales and dolphins die each year due to fisheries bycatch. While shipping activities and habitat loss further threaten their survival. As we celebrate World Whale Day, we must reflect on how we can improve whale conservation.
Let’s advocate for these extraordinary beings, advocate for their preservation, and learn more about their world. After all, whales participate in the web of life that sustains our Earth. Together, we can protect their legacy and ensure future generations celebrate their magnificence for years to come.
To help protect our whales, share this article with your friends. Let's widen the circle of knowledge and protect these creatures to safeguard the delicate balance of our oceans and, ultimately, our planet. Their survival is intertwined with ours, and preserving their habitat will help us preserve ours.
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