The Southern Right Whale Program, developed by the Whale Conservation Institute (WCI), celebrates 55 years of uninterrupted studies, establishing itself as the world’s longest-running scientific project focused on a whale species.
With nearly 5,000 identified individuals, this program has allowed to generate valuable knowledge about the biology, behavior, and threats faced by the southern right whale in the South Atlantic.
“This work allows us to act with greater awareness, knowing that our actions in the present impact the future”, expressed Mariano Sironi, scientific director of the WCI in a statement.
Over half a century of monitoring the southern right whale
The program was initiated in 1971 by Roger Payne, founder of Ocean Alliance, who saw in Peninsula Valdes the perfect setting for a long-term study on the species.
Over time, the collected data has proven to be a key tool for conservation, especially in the face of modern threats.
The dangers whales face today
Although commercial whaling ceased in 1935, new threats affect the survival of these cetaceans:
- Entanglement in fishing gear and collisions with vessels.
- Reduction of krill populations, caused by climate change and the loss of Antarctic ice.
- Attacks from kelp gulls in Peninsula Valdes, causing injuries on the whales’ backs.
Researchers have observed an increase in mortality of calves and adults, reinforcing the need to continue monitoring the species.
The program’s legacy
Thanks to decades of study, the team has answered fundamental questions about:
- Population growth rate, which has decreased from 7% annually to less than 4%.
- Migratory patterns and feeding areas, identified through satellite tracking.
- Impact of stress and environmental changes on reproduction, affected by El Niño and climate change.
The generated database is used to inform conservation strategies and promote marine protected areas.
A call to conservation
“Every passing year is more important than the last. We invite the community to get involved in this effort, supporting ocean protection”, stated Sironi.
Through initiatives like symbolic whale adoptions and donations, the program seeks to ensure the continuity of this pioneering study, protecting the whales for future generations.
