Satellite-tagged shearwaters can serve as indicators of humpback whale locations Experienced whale watchers know that seabirds are often a sign of a whale’s presence. Based on this knowledge, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary and collaborators explored using satellite tagged great shearwaters to locate humpback whales. A humpback whale surfaces to feed as multiple species of … Continue reading 2023 Recent Developments
North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis)
Right Whale Fast Facts Status: Endangered; protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act Population Estimate: 340 (based on the North Atlantic right whale 2022 report card here) Length: 45-55 ft Weight: up to 70 tons Life Span: 65+ years Prey: zooplankton - specifically copepods (they are picky eaters!) Fun Fact: The callosities (patterns of rough skin on … Continue reading North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis)
Wrapping It All Up
inspire your passengers to make a difference. Why is it important that they came on your whale watch that day? Whale watching with you instead of on their own boat means fewer boats in the water and less traffic for the whales to have to navigate. Choosing a Whale SENSE company for their trip is … Continue reading Wrapping It All Up
Your Audience
PART 4: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER Your Audience Whale watchers come from all over the world with different values, knowledge, and experiences. By better understanding your passengers, you can create a more effective message. Some of your passengers are experienced whale watchers while others are first-timers. It is important to be empathetic to varying levels … Continue reading Your Audience
The SENSE acronym – a brief overview
SENSE is an acronym that highlights program criteria! S- Stick to the regional whale watching guidelines Guidelines are in place to keep you, your passengers, and the whales safe, and to keep you from violating the law. Best Viewing Maneuver Responsible vessels will view animals from the back or side and parallel the course of the whale when possible. … Continue reading The SENSE acronym – a brief overview