I have to admit that this blog post is a very difficult one to write. But, it’s an important topic to hit on, considering the importance of bringing about awareness. Whales are some of the most incredible creatures on Earth, and I’ve been lucky enough to see them thriving in Montauk’s waters. However, their survival isn’t guaranteed. Threats to whales come in many forms, from ocean pollution effects to climate change, and understanding these threats is the first step toward helping them.
Climate Change and Whales
You might be wondering, how does climate change affect whales? Warming oceans are disrupting the food chain. Tiny creatures like krill, which many whales depend on for food, are moving to new areas as water temperatures rise. Whales must travel farther to find their meals, which makes their migrations even harder.
Fun Fact!
A single humpback whale can eat the weight of a small car in food in one day. That’s up to up to 3,000 pounds!
Noise Pollution and Whales
Whales rely on sound to communicate, find food, and navigate their world. Unfortunately, human activities—like industrial shipping, oil drilling, and military sonar—are creating noise pollution in the ocean. This loud underwater noise disrupts whale communication and can cause them to lose their way.
Pro Tip!
If you’re on a whale watching tour, choose companies that practice sustainable whale watching. Tours that keep noise levels low are better for the whales’ well-being.
Threats to Whales in the Form of Ship Strikes
With so many large ships in our oceans, ship strikes on whales have become a growing concern. Whales often rest or feed near the surface, making them vulnerable to collisions. This is
true for endangered whale species like the North Atlantic right whale.
To reduce this risk, some regions have introduced “slow zones” where ships are required to move at lower speeds. These measures have helped protect marine life, but there’s still more work to do.
Shenole Latimer
Whales and Fishing Gear Entanglement
Another big challenge for whales is fishing gear entanglement. Whales can accidentally swim into nets or ropes left behind by fishing boats. When this happens, the gear can get tangled around their fins, tails, or mouths. Sadly, entanglement can make it hard for whales to swim, feed, or even breathe.
Organizations are working on solutions, like developing “whale-safe” fishing gear that doesn’t harm marine life. Supporting these efforts can make a big difference.
Ocean Pollution Effects
The ocean is often treated as a dumping ground, but for whales, it’s home. Plastic pollution in oceans is one of the biggest dangers. Whales can accidentally swallow plastic bags, balloons, or other debris while feeding. Over time, this can lead to internal injuries or even death.
Chemical pollution is another issue. Industrial waste and agricultural runoff introduce harmful toxins into the ocean, which build up in the bodies of whales over time.
Not so Fun Fact! 🙁
Scientists have found plastic debris as large as a basketball in the stomachs of some whales. Whales mistake these objects for food, like squid or jellyfish.
Whale Hunting Impact
Although commercial whale hunting has largely been banned, some countries still hunt whales for their meat and oil. This practice has put many whale species at risk, even after decades of conservation work.
However, there’s good news: more and more people are choosing to protect whales rather than harm them. Eco-tourism, like whale watching, is a positive alternative that supports local communities and helps keep whales safe.
Pro Tip!
Pro Tip: When you go whale watching, your ticket helps fund whale conservation organizations. By choosing responsible tours, you’re contributing to efforts to protect marine life.
What We Can Do to Help
There’s still hope for the whales. Small actions add up, and each of us can make a difference:
- Reduce plastic waste by using reusable bottles, bags, and containers.
- Support protecting marine life organizations that fight for whale conservation.
- Choose sustainable seafood and encourage responsible fishing practices.
- Learn more about human impact on whales and share what you know with others.
Montauk plays a role, too. By practicing eco-friendly whale watching, we can help make sure this incredible destination remains a safe place for whales for generations to come.
Together, We Can Protect Whales
Whales face many challenges, but I believe there’s always room for hope. By learning about the threats to whales and making small, thoughtful choices, we can ensure these magnificent animals continue to thrive. Montauk’s waters are a reminder of what we’re working to protect—and why it’s so important.