Until recently, the presence of humpback whales along the coast of Patagonia was considered a rarity.
Historical maps indicated that after reproducing in Brazil, these species migrated directly to Antarctica via deep oceanic routes. However, a discovery by the Proyecto Patagonia Azul in Chubut has changed that perception, revealing that humpbacks use Argentine coastal areas as part of their migratory cycle.
Sightings and Satellite Tagging
Biologist Lucas Beltramino, who began his work in 2019, noticed that sightings were multiplying. By cross-referencing images with the global platform Happywhale, the team verified that the same individuals had been recorded in Brazil, Antarctica, and the Beagle Channel.
To better understand their movements, a satellite tagging project was designed in collaboration with the University of California. In January, transmitters were placed on three humpback whales. Two devices detached after a feeding residency period in the Parque Provincial Patagonia Azul and Puerto Visser, but the third continued to send vital information.
Routes and Migratory Behavior
The data showed that the tagged whale advanced up to 200 km daily southward, reaching a new feeding area in Antarctica. Meanwhile, researchers in the South Orkney Islands spotted other specimens previously recorded in Chubut, confirming the connection between both regions.
The analysis of more than four years of sampling allowed establishing a clear seasonality: the presence of humpbacks in Patagonia begins in late October or early November and extends until March, with a small peak of sightings in May.
Importance of Protected Areas
Scientists emphasize that the prolonged stay of whales in the Parque Provincial Patagonia Azul is crucial for their conservation.
These waters, still without full legal protection, provide food that directly impacts the reproduction and survival of the species.
Ecological Implications
The discovery shows that humpback whales not only transit through deep oceanic routes but also depend on key coastal ecosystems in their migration. This reinforces the need to:
- Expand protected marine areas in Patagonia.
- Monitor populations with satellite technology to better understand their movements.
- Promote conservation policies that integrate science with territorial management.
The recurring presence of humpback whales in Patagonia redefines the migratory map of the South Atlantic and underscores the vital role of protected marine areas. This finding not only contributes scientific knowledge but also poses a challenge: ensuring that these feeding spaces are preserved to secure the future of an iconic ocean species.
