Scientists are using underwater listening devices to track how whale migration patterns change along Australia’s coastline, About Regional reports.
What happened?
Researchers from Griffith University placed hydrophones at several locations along Australia’s east coast, from Cairns in the tropics all the way to Batemans Bay.
These underwater microphones collect data for about half a year. They’ll hear humpback whales and other ocean sounds before a nearby dive business collects equipment.
Dr. Olaf Meinecke, head of the university’s whale and climate program, said records show humpback whales are changing when and where they travel. As polar ice shrinks, mammals appear to be starting their journeys earlier. More people stayed in the cooler southern waters rather than sailing north.
“Even in August, there’s definitely an increase in migration, but there’s still a clear difference between the northern and southern migrations,” Dr. Meinecke noted. “We don’t have that on the south coast; there are whales there all the time.”
Why are changes in whale migration worrying?
When large marine animals change their movement patterns, it often signals broader changes in ocean conditions.
Dr Meineke said the team was unable to visually monitor the whales for long periods of time. This means researchers often overlook subtle changes in animals’ response to a warming planet.
The recovery of humpback whale populations may partly explain this change.
“Now, when there are more whales, more whales can stay, conserve energy and wait for breeders to return during their southern migration,” Dr Meineke explained.
Although the researchers say more data are needed before drawing firm conclusions, they suspect there are several overlapping causes, including warming waters and population recovery. Tracking these changes helps scientists understand how marine life responds to changes in global ocean conditions.
What can I do to help protect whales?
Citizen science projects like this one, where dive companies help deploy and collect monitoring equipment, are improving how researchers track marine life.
You can support similar efforts by volunteering with an ocean research organization or donating to an ocean conservation organization.
Reducing our carbon footprint helps address the root causes of ocean warming. Switch to renewable energy at home and reduce air travel as much as possible. Support businesses working to reduce their environmental impact.
Contact your elected officials and express your support for policies that protect marine habitats and combat rising ocean temperatures.
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