A new study has found both promising and worrying trends in contaminant (chemical pollution) levels in whales off the coast of Eastern Canada. The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, shows that while environmental regulations are making progress, killer whales in the region continue to face significant challenges. Despite reductions in contaminant inputs,...

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In a newly published study in Seismica, researchers used instruments on land designed to monitor earthquakes (seismometers) to detect the presence of fin and blue whale calls in the Gulf of St Lawrence.   What if we could use a seismometer to detect fins whales year long? — Credit: A. Remili What is a seismometer?  Seismometers...

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Marine mammals are difficult for scientists to study; they spend most or all of their lives in and around water habitats. Because of their vastness (hundreds of thousands of square kilometers) and depth (thousands of meters), marine mammal habitats are difficult for humans to access and explore. Cetaceans – whales, dolphin, and porpoises – spend...

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“If a whale got close to me, could it swallow me whole?” You probably thought of this question once or twice if you ever swam in the ocean, or hopped on a whale-watching tour. To address whether whales can eat humans, we first need to understand the anatomy and behavior of different whale species. There...

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The ocean is a mysterious world. Humans know more about other planets in our solar system than about the ocean floor. In fact, the diversity of whales inhabiting the ocean’s depths is among some things we do not fully comprehend yet. But thanks to new methods, such as acoustic recording and genetic testing, new species...

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Whales, dolphins, and porpoises (also called cetaceans) exhibit remarkable social behaviors. Sometimes, some species can form large pods that may span for miles and consist of thousands of individuals. One intriguing aspect of cetaceans’ social dynamics is the ability to establish connections beyond their species. These relationships transcend traditional species boundaries, with two or more...

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Ever wondered about the vibrant colors, flexibility, and durability of plastics? These traits are shaped by “plasticizers,” chemicals added to alter plastics’ properties. Unfortunately, many of these chemicals find their way into oceans, posing a threat to wildlife. Despite some being banned, others are still being used in plastic production resulting in ocean contamination. A...

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Vibrissae, commonly known as whiskers, are not exclusive to cats. They are present on the faces of most mammals. While we often associate these tactile hairs with our feline friends, cetaceans (i.e.: whales, porpoises, and dolphins) are also born with them. What could be the reason? Are these vibrissae useful? Let’s explore the fascinating world...

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The use of “forever chemicals” or persistent organic pollutants (POPs) has been banned for quite some years. They include infamous compounds such as PCBs or polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides, and flame retardants. Yet, these chemical contaminants are still present in our marine ecosystems, and the porpoises inhabiting them. Scientists discovered that more than half of harbor...

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This month we shine a light on a very specific population of bottlenose dolphins. We can encounter them right off the coast of Louisiana, in Barataria Bay. The Barataria Bay dolphins are not much different than other populations found off the Gulf of Mexico coastline. However, they face specific stresses that threaten the survival of their population. Let’s find out about these threats! These dolphins hang out in Barataria Bay Barataria Bay is a sheltered…

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