<p>A drone pilot was able to capture the footage of a rather unique encounter&nbsp;which took place&nbsp;over the weekend, where a humpback whale followed a kayaker off Bondi Beach in Australia for a couple of minutes. The video, as per local media reports, was shot in the morning when the whale swam alongside a kayaker who was out for a&nbsp;morning paddle.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Super curious’ humpback whale</strong></h2>

<p>The video posted by Dronesharkapp has garnered over 40,000 likes on Instagram since it was posted two days ago. It shows the whale following the kayaker and even swimming alongside them near Bondi Beach for several minutes before they part ways.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Wowsers. This just happened at #bondi. This #humpbackwhale was super curious and followed this kayaker in all the way from Tamarama,” read the caption of the video.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>‘Best day of their life’: People react</strong><br />
<br />
Several people reacted to the encounter with one user calling it “Wow…best day of their life.” While another user said, “They look like they’re on a stroll together.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some users even raised concerns about the whale being in such shallow waters. “Is it worrying that whalie is so close or in such shallow waters?” wrote a user. However, the account which posted&nbsp;the video assured them that it happens “quite a bit”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Whales’ annual migration</strong></h2>

<p>As per local media reports, hundreds of marine mammals have been spotted off the coast in Sydney this month given their annual migration north from Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef. Notably, the researchers have been stunned by the large number of humpbacks observed this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A wildlife scientist and whale expert at Australia’s Macquarie University, Vanessa Pirotta, said that there could be a number of factors contributing to the increased number of whales on the country’s coasts this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said that they are not 100 per cent sure what is driving this increase in whale numbers but said that their “population is recovering” and maybe there are favourable conditions in Antarctica this year.<br />
<br />
Pirotta also said that it might be because of the El Nino weather pattern with warmer conditions there are more people on the beach and seeing more whales, adding that “It’s hard to say.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>This year around, up to 50,000 whales are expected to pass Australia’s east coast during their annual migration season. Additionally, given the rise in the number of humpback whales the country removed them from their threatened species list, last year.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A drone pilot was able to capture the footage of a rather unique encounter which took place over the weekend, where a humpback whale followed a kayaker off Bondi Beach in Australia for a couple of minutes.

A drone pilot was able to capture the footage of a rather unique encounter which took place over the weekend, where a humpback whale followed a kayaker off Bondi Beach in Australia for a couple of minutes. The video, as per local media reports, was shot in the morning when the whale swam alongside a kayaker who was out for a morning paddle. ‘Super curious’ humpback whale The video posted by Dronesharkapp has garnered over 40,000 likes on Instagram since it was posted two days ago. It shows the whale following the kayaker and even swimming alongside them near Bondi Beach for several minutes before they part ways. “Wowsers. This just happened at #bondi. This #humpbackwhale was super curious and followed this kayaker in all the way from Tamarama,” read the caption of the video. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MARINE LIFE SHOW🐳🐬🐋🦈 FROM Air (@dronesharkapp) × ‘Best day of their life’: People react Several people reacted to the encounter with one user calling it “Wow…best day of their life.” While another user said, “They look like they’re on a stroll together.” Some users even raised concerns about the whale being in such shallow waters. “Is it worrying that whalie is so close or in such shallow waters?” wrote a user. However, the account which posted the video assured them that it happens “quite a bit”. Whales’ annual migration As per local media reports, hundreds of marine mammals have been spotted off the coast in Sydney this month given their annual migration north from Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef. Notably, the researchers have been stunned by the large number of humpbacks observed this season. A wildlife scientist and whale expert at Australia’s Macquarie University, Vanessa Pirotta, said that there could be a number of factors contributing to the increased number of whales on the country’s coasts this season. She also said that they are not 100 per cent sure what is driving this increase in whale numbers but said that their “population is recovering” and maybe there are favourable conditions in Antarctica this year. Pirotta also said that it might be because of the El Nino weather pattern with warmer conditions there are more people on the beach and seeing more whales, adding that “It’s hard to say.” This year around, up to 50,000 whales are expected to pass Australia’s east coast during their annual migration season. Additionally, given the rise in the number of humpback whales the country removed them from their threatened species list, last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | ‘Super curious’ whale follows kayaker off Bondi beach in Australia

Killer Whales have been attacking ships in the Iberian Peninsula. Scientists say their coordinated actions are purpose-driven. They also speculate Orcas have been teaching each other to sink vessels. Is nature revolting against human disruptions?

Gravitas: Scientists suggest Killer Whales are teaching each other to sink ships

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<p>A beluga whale, suspected to be a spy trained by the Russian navy, made an appearance off the Swedish coast on Sunday. The whale, which made headlines back in 2019 when it was discovered off the Norwegian coast, had spent more than&nbsp;three years slowly moving down the top half of the Norwegian coastline.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The whale was observed loitering in Hunnebostrand, off Sweden’s south-western coast, with marine biologists attempting to decipher did it end&nbsp;up there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We don’t know why he has sped up so fast right now," Sebastian Strand, a marine biologist with the OneWhale organisation was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It could be hormones driving him to find a mate. Or it could be loneliness, as belugas are a very social species – it could be that he’s searching for other beluga whales," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The whale, believed to be 13-14 years old is at an age where the hormones are shooting through the roof. According to reports, the whale has not seen a single other beluga since arriving in Norway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-france-rescued-the-beluga-whale-trapped-in-seine-river-505397"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;How France rescued the beluga whale trapped in Seine river</strong></a></p>

<p>The whale, who has been given the nickname "Hvaldimir", had a harness with a mount suited for an action camera planted on it when it was first discovered. The plastic clasps of the mount had the words Equipment St Petersburg printed on them, which led to an international conspiracy theory about the whale being a Russian spy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Moscow never confirmed or issued any official reaction to theories that the whale was a "Russian spy".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Keep distance from the beluga: Norway</strong></h2>

<p>The whale straying into Swedish waters comes nearly a week after the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries appealed to the public to “avoid contact" with the mammal so that it doesn't suffer any injuries accidentally or lose its life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We especially encourage people in boats to keep a good distance to avoid the whale being injured or, in the worst case, killed by boat traffic,” said Fisheries Director Frank Bakke-Jensen in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-woman-survives-five-days-in-bush-drinking-only-wine-trending-on-wion-590535"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Australia woman survives five days in bush drinking only wine | Trending on WION</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/woman-screams-after-spotting-cockroach-in-tel-aviv-cafe-people-flee-thinking-it-to-be-terror-attack-597802#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>“We have always communicated that the whale in question is a free-living animal and we see no reason to capture it and put it behind barriers,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-asks-people-to-keep-distance-from-spy-whale-to-ensure-animals-safety-596203" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Norway asks people to keep distance from ‘spy’ whale to ensure animal’s safety</strong></a></p>

<p>The beluga whales can&nbsp;live between 40 and 60 years, reaching a size of about six metres. They&nbsp;are generally found in the&nbsp;icy waters around Greenland, northern Norway and Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A beluga whale, suspected to be a spy trained by the Russian navy, made an appearance off the Swedish coast on Sunday. The whale, which made headlines back in 2019 when it was discovered off the Norwegian coast, had spent more than three years slowly moving down the top half of the Norwegian coastline.

A beluga whale, suspected to be a spy trained by the Russian navy, made an appearance off the Swedish coast on Sunday. The whale, which made headlines back in 2019 when it was discovered off the Norwegian coast, had spent more than three years slowly moving down the top half of the Norwegian coastline. The whale was observed loitering in Hunnebostrand, off Sweden’s south-western coast, with marine biologists attempting to decipher did it end up there. “We don’t know why he has sped up so fast right now," Sebastian Strand, a marine biologist with the OneWhale organisation was quoted as saying by AFP. “It could be hormones driving him to find a mate. Or it could be loneliness, as belugas are a very social species – it could be that he’s searching for other beluga whales," he added. The whale, believed to be 13-14 years old is at an age where the hormones are shooting through the roof. According to reports, the whale has not seen a single other beluga since arriving in Norway. IN PICS | How France rescued the beluga whale trapped in Seine river The whale, who has been given the nickname "Hvaldimir", had a harness with a mount suited for an action camera planted on it when it was first discovered. The plastic clasps of the mount had the words Equipment St Petersburg printed on them, which led to an international conspiracy theory about the whale being a Russian spy. Notably, Moscow never confirmed or issued any official reaction to theories that the whale was a "Russian spy". Keep distance from the beluga: Norway The whale straying into Swedish waters comes nearly a week after the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries appealed to the public to “avoid contact" with the mammal so that it doesn't suffer any injuries accidentally or lose its life. “We especially encourage people in boats to keep a good distance to avoid the whale being injured or, in the worst case, killed by boat traffic,” said Fisheries Director Frank Bakke-Jensen in a statement. WATCH | Australia woman survives five days in bush drinking only wine | Trending on WION × “We have always communicated that the whale in question is a free-living animal and we see no reason to capture it and put it behind barriers,” he added. ALSO READ | Norway asks people to keep distance from ‘spy’ whale to ensure animal’s safety The beluga whales can live between 40 and 60 years, reaching a size of about six metres. They are generally found in the icy waters around Greenland, northern Norway and Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian 'spy' whale surfaces in Sweden after spending three years on Norwegian coastline

<p>Canada's last captive killer whale, dubbed "the loneliest whale in the world" has died. Kiska, the 47-year-old Orca whale, as per local media reports, died on Thursday (March 9) of bacterial infection. The lonely mammal spent the last four decades of her life in captivity, with more than 12 of those (since 2011) in isolation. Kiska was a resident of Marineland, a zoo and amusement park in Niagara Falls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kiska, the 'world's loneliest whale', was captured in 1979 from Icelandic waters along with Keiko the whale, who went on to star in the movie 'Free Willy'. She spent her earlier captive life in various marine parks before ending up in the Canadian amusement park.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;The mystery behind Whale strandings on shores of Cyprus</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We can confirm that Kiska, MarineLand’s last orca has been buried at the park. This, sadly is her final resting place. May she rest in peace. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPKiska?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPKiska</a> <a href="https://t.co/GUKbY2NtAN">pic.twitter.com/GUKbY2NtAN</a></p>
— Phil Demers (@walruswhisperer) <a href="https://twitter.com/walruswhisperer/status/1634643700025380866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per the animal rights organisation, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), "Kiska the orca has died from a bacterial infection at Marineland of Canada in Ontario."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You deserved so much better, Kiska.<br />
<br />
We won’t stop fighting for orcas like you. <a href="https://t.co/BWcOy2gZ1K">pic.twitter.com/BWcOy2gZ1K</a></p>
— PETA (@peta) <a href="https://twitter.com/peta/status/1634344449542086664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The group further added that "she spent her final years isolated in a cramped tank, swimming in endless circles or sometimes floating listlessly. Like all orcas and other dolphins held prisoner in marine parks and exploited for entertainment, she deserved to stay in the ocean with her family, where she could have experienced a natural life."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heartbreaking video of Kiska, MarineLand’s last orca’s tank prior to and just after her tragic death. Let her legacy be that of inspiring great change as she’s the last orca that will ever be in captivity in Canada. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPKiska?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPKiska</a> <a href="https://t.co/pBRt1Hw4Rg">pic.twitter.com/pBRt1Hw4Rg</a></p>
— Phil Demers (@walruswhisperer) <a href="https://twitter.com/walruswhisperer/status/1634620668477054977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kiska outlived all five of her calves, who sadly died before even reaching five years of age. In the wild, orcas, on average, have a life expectancy of 30 to 50 years. For males, the maximum life expectancy is 60 years, while for females it is 80 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/absolutely-amazingbut-also-breaks-your-heart-moon-the-hunchback-whale-travels-5000kms-with-a-broken-back-542245">'Absolutely amazing...but also breaks your heart': Moon the humpback whale travels 5000kms with a broken back</a></strong></p>

<p>In September 2021, a video of Kiska bashing her head against the glass wall of her "cramped tank" had gone viral. The haunting video showed the "world's loneliest whale" slamming her head and body against the walls of her "prison".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the video, animal activists and rights organisations even filed a legal complaint about the "mental suffering" Kiska was enduring.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Cette vidéo qui montre Kiska en train de se taper la tête contre les parois de son aquarium du Marineland de Niagara Falls au Canada, a été tournée le 4 septembre 2021.<br />
Kiska est morte hier. Elle vivait seule, sans congénère, entre désespoir et folie, depuis 2011.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeKiska?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeKiska</a> <a href="https://t.co/44A3Y46KgO">pic.twitter.com/44A3Y46KgO</a></p>
— Muriel Fusi (@Muriel_FUSI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Muriel_FUSI/status/1634475855375106048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In spite of that, her imprisonment continued. Canada banned whale and dolphin captivity in 2019, however, marine mammals like Kiska who were already in captivity were made an exception to the law.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/killer-whales-make-lifelong-sacrifice-for-their-sons-study-560246">Killer whale mothers make ‘lifelong sacrifice’ for their sons, reveals study</a></strong></p>

<p>Countries like the United States, China, Japan, Spain and Russia still allow for the captivity and breeding of killer whales like Kiska. According to a Whale &amp; Dolphin Conservation USA report, as of January 9, 2023, at least 173 orcas have died in captivity in the US. Another 30 deaths account for miscarriages or still-born calves. Despite this, and the years of activism on part of animal activists, the US SeaWorld still holds captive 18 orcas in its three parks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Canada's last captive killer whale, dubbed "the loneliest whale in the world" has died. Kiska, the 47-year-old Orca whale, as per local media reports, died on Thursday (March 9) of bacterial infection.

Canada's last captive killer whale, dubbed "the loneliest whale in the world" has died. Kiska, the 47-year-old Orca whale, as per local media reports, died on Thursday (March 9) of bacterial infection. The lonely mammal spent the last four decades of her life in captivity, with more than 12 of those (since 2011) in isolation. Kiska was a resident of Marineland, a zoo and amusement park in Niagara Falls. Kiska, the 'world's loneliest whale', was captured in 1979 from Icelandic waters along with Keiko the whale, who went on to star in the movie 'Free Willy'. She spent her earlier captive life in various marine parks before ending up in the Canadian amusement park. Watch | The mystery behind Whale strandings on shores of Cyprus We can confirm that Kiska, MarineLand’s last orca has been buried at the park. This, sadly is her final resting place. May she rest in peace. #RIPKiska pic.twitter.com/GUKbY2NtAN — Phil Demers (@walruswhisperer) March 11, 2023 × As per the animal rights organisation, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), "Kiska the orca has died from a bacterial infection at Marineland of Canada in Ontario." You deserved so much better, Kiska. We won’t stop fighting for orcas like you. pic.twitter.com/BWcOy2gZ1K — PETA (@peta) March 11, 2023 × The group further added that "she spent her final years isolated in a cramped tank, swimming in endless circles or sometimes floating listlessly. Like all orcas and other dolphins held prisoner in marine parks and exploited for entertainment, she deserved to stay in the ocean with her family, where she could have experienced a natural life." Heartbreaking video of Kiska, MarineLand’s last orca’s tank prior to and just after her tragic death. Let her legacy be that of inspiring great change as she’s the last orca that will ever be in captivity in Canada. #RIPKiska pic.twitter.com/pBRt1Hw4Rg — Phil Demers (@walruswhisperer) March 11, 2023 × Kiska outlived all five of her calves, who sadly died before even reaching five years of age. In the wild, orcas, on average, have a life expectancy of 30 to 50 years. For males, the maximum life expectancy is 60 years, while for females it is 80 years. Also read | 'Absolutely amazing...but also breaks your heart': Moon the humpback whale travels 5000kms with a broken back In September 2021, a video of Kiska bashing her head against the glass wall of her "cramped tank" had gone viral. The haunting video showed the "world's loneliest whale" slamming her head and body against the walls of her "prison". Following the video, animal activists and rights organisations even filed a legal complaint about the "mental suffering" Kiska was enduring. Cette vidéo qui montre Kiska en train de se taper la tête contre les parois de son aquarium du Marineland de Niagara Falls au Canada, a été tournée le 4 septembre 2021. Kiska est morte hier. Elle vivait seule, sans congénère, entre désespoir et folie, depuis 2011.#FreeKiska pic.twitter.com/44A3Y46KgO — Muriel Fusi (@Muriel_FUSI) March 11, 2023 × In spite of that, her imprisonment continued. Canada banned whale and dolphin captivity in 2019, however, marine mammals like Kiska who were already in captivity were made an exception to the law. Also read | Killer whale mothers make ‘lifelong sacrifice’ for their sons, reveals study Countries like the United States, China, Japan, Spain and Russia still allow for the captivity and breeding of killer whales like Kiska. According to a Whale & Dolphin Conservation USA report, as of January 9, 2023, at least 173 orcas have died in captivity in the US. Another 30 deaths account for miscarriages or still-born calves. Despite this, and the years of activism on part of animal activists, the US SeaWorld still holds captive 18 orcas in its three parks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Isolated for over a decade, world’s ‘loneliest whale’, Kiska, dies in Canada after 40 years of captivity

According to a recent study, scientists have warned that deep-sea mining could be doing irreparable damage to blue whales and other rare marine creatures. The noise produced by mining the seabed can in turn interfere with whales’ ability to communicate with one another leading to extreme damage. @mohammed11saleh brings you this report.

Deep-sea mining pose 'risk to ocean ecosystems': Study

Whales, the gentle giants of the oceans, they are large in size and are intelligent aquatic mammals but sometimes they get lost and end up on the beaches. In the US state of New Jersey, another humpback whale was washed up ashore.

WION Climate Tracker | US: 30-foot Humpback whale washes up at a New Jersey shore

Conservation and climate change mitigation are often considered two separate environmental issues but both are deeply linked to each other. We know that tackling climate change can help save wildlife populations around the world but the opposite is also true.

WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions

<p>Scientists have discovered that whales can actually help mitigate climate change, which is referred to as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A recent study from the University of Otago and the University of Alaska Southeast said that whales may be the largest living carbon sink in the pelagic zone of the open ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study focuses on carbon sequestration, which is a process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The process is aimed at reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists have said that the most prevalent greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide (CO2), must be stored and captured if global warming is to be stopped. Carbon sequestration majorly talks about planting trees or restoring wetlands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But while mentioning whales, scientists said that because of their vast size, they can naturally absorb a lot of CO2. It means none of that carbon will leak into the atmosphere when they die and sink to the ocean floor.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"Their size and longevity allow whales to exert strong effects on the carbon cycle by storing carbon more effectively than small animals, ingesting extreme quantities of prey, and producing large volumes of waste products," the authors said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Considering that baleen whales have some of the longest migrations on the planet, they potentially influence nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling over ocean-basin scales," they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the study, whales will consume up to 4 per cent of their body weight each day. Krill and photosynthetic plankton make up a large portion of their diets. This equates to about 3.6 tonnes of food each day for a blue whale. Whales can aid in the process of krill and plankton photosynthesis, which absorbs carbon.&nbsp;</p>

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Scientists have discovered that whales can actually help mitigate climate change, which is referred to as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. A recent study from the University of Otago and the University of Alaska Southeast said that whales may be the largest living carbon sink in the pelagic zone of the open ocean.

Scientists have discovered that whales can actually help mitigate climate change, which is referred to as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. A recent study from the University of Otago and the University of Alaska Southeast said that whales may be the largest living carbon sink in the pelagic zone of the open ocean. The study focuses on carbon sequestration, which is a process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The process is aimed at reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Scientists have said that the most prevalent greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide (CO2), must be stored and captured if global warming is to be stopped. Carbon sequestration majorly talks about planting trees or restoring wetlands. But while mentioning whales, scientists said that because of their vast size, they can naturally absorb a lot of CO2. It means none of that carbon will leak into the atmosphere when they die and sink to the ocean floor. Watch this report: × "Their size and longevity allow whales to exert strong effects on the carbon cycle by storing carbon more effectively than small animals, ingesting extreme quantities of prey, and producing large volumes of waste products," the authors said. "Considering that baleen whales have some of the longest migrations on the planet, they potentially influence nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling over ocean-basin scales," they added. According to the study, whales will consume up to 4 per cent of their body weight each day. Krill and photosynthetic plankton make up a large portion of their diets. This equates to about 3.6 tonnes of food each day for a blue whale. Whales can aid in the process of krill and plankton photosynthesis, which absorbs carbon. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say

<p>What was once thought to be a final resting place for dozens of giant marine reptiles, ichthyosaurs, which dominated the seas millions of years ago, could instead be an ancient maternity ward, a place where the prehistoric marine reptiles once gave birth. The fossils found in the United States’ of Nevada’s Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest have puzzled scientists for a long time which led to several hypotheses over the years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, in a study published in the journal, ‘Current Biology’ researchers offer a new theory which is linked to the reproductive behaviour shared by several marine mammals today. The scientific name for prehistoric reptiles is Shonisaurus popularis which means lizard fish and could grow at least 50 feet long.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-doctor-may-have-saved-a-babys-life-by-repairing-heart-using-umbilical-stem-cells-544689">In a first! Doctor may have saved a baby’s life by repairing heart using umbilical stem cells</a></strong></p>

<p>“We present evidence that these ichthyosaurs died here in large numbers because they were migrating to this area to give birth for many generations across hundreds of thousands of years,” said the co-author of the study and curator at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Nicholas Pyenson, in a press release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fossils were excavated in the 1950s and found at least 37 of the ancient creatures had died at the same location over 200 million years ago. For this study, the massive skeletons were 3D scanned to create a detailed digital model, said the lead author Randy Irmis, chief curator and curator of palaeontology at the Natural History Museum of Utah.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-italy-fish-starved-from-lack-of-oxygen-535400">WION Climate Tracker | Italy: Fish starved from lack of oxygen</a></strong></p>

<p>Subsequently, they found that the bones were preserved in different rock layers suggesting that the creatures could have died hundreds of thousands of years apart rather than all at once, said Pyenson. He added that the discovery of some tiny bones among the massive adult fossils was the breakthrough in the study, as the researchers realised they belonged to embryos and newborns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are other examples of ichthyosaur embryos and newborns, but this is the first time we have strong evidence for reproductive grouping behaviour,” said Irmis, in an emailed statement to CNN. This behaviour is also linked to present-day whales who typically migrate across the ocean, where there are fewer predators, to breed and give birth. It is also noted that many species gather year after year along the same coastline.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-nursery-used-by-hammerhead-sharks-found-near-galapagos-island-543859">New nursery used by hammerhead sharks found near Galapagos islands</a></strong></p>

<p>Researchers believe that the fossils are from the mothers and offspring that died there over the years, while other clues also helped rule out previous theories of a mass stranding event or ichthyosaurs being poisoned by the toxins from an algae bloom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We know this is something many large marine vertebrates exhibit in the present, so it makes sense that similar behaviour occurred in the past. But we really didn’t know how far back, especially with extinct animal groups like ichthyosaurs, that have no close living relatives,” said Irmis to CNN.&nbsp;</p>

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What was once thought to be a final resting place for dozens of giant marine reptiles, ichthyosaurs, which dominated the seas millions of years ago, could instead be an ancient maternity ward, a place where the prehistoric marine reptiles once gave birth.

What was once thought to be a final resting place for dozens of giant marine reptiles, ichthyosaurs, which dominated the seas millions of years ago, could instead be an ancient maternity ward, a place where the prehistoric marine reptiles once gave birth. The fossils found in the United States’ of Nevada’s Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest have puzzled scientists for a long time which led to several hypotheses over the years. On Monday, in a study published in the journal, ‘Current Biology’ researchers offer a new theory which is linked to the reproductive behaviour shared by several marine mammals today. The scientific name for prehistoric reptiles is Shonisaurus popularis which means lizard fish and could grow at least 50 feet long. ALSO READ | In a first! Doctor may have saved a baby’s life by repairing heart using umbilical stem cells “We present evidence that these ichthyosaurs died here in large numbers because they were migrating to this area to give birth for many generations across hundreds of thousands of years,” said the co-author of the study and curator at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Nicholas Pyenson, in a press release. The fossils were excavated in the 1950s and found at least 37 of the ancient creatures had died at the same location over 200 million years ago. For this study, the massive skeletons were 3D scanned to create a detailed digital model, said the lead author Randy Irmis, chief curator and curator of palaeontology at the Natural History Museum of Utah. ALSO WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | Italy: Fish starved from lack of oxygen Subsequently, they found that the bones were preserved in different rock layers suggesting that the creatures could have died hundreds of thousands of years apart rather than all at once, said Pyenson. He added that the discovery of some tiny bones among the massive adult fossils was the breakthrough in the study, as the researchers realised they belonged to embryos and newborns. “There are other examples of ichthyosaur embryos and newborns, but this is the first time we have strong evidence for reproductive grouping behaviour,” said Irmis, in an emailed statement to CNN. This behaviour is also linked to present-day whales who typically migrate across the ocean, where there are fewer predators, to breed and give birth. It is also noted that many species gather year after year along the same coastline. ALSO READ | New nursery used by hammerhead sharks found near Galapagos islands Researchers believe that the fossils are from the mothers and offspring that died there over the years, while other clues also helped rule out previous theories of a mass stranding event or ichthyosaurs being poisoned by the toxins from an algae bloom. “We know this is something many large marine vertebrates exhibit in the present, so it makes sense that similar behaviour occurred in the past. But we really didn’t know how far back, especially with extinct animal groups like ichthyosaurs, that have no close living relatives,” said Irmis to CNN. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

What was once thought to be marine reptile death bed could be an ancient maternity ward: Study

Nearly 200 whales have died after becoming stranded on a beach on Tasmania's west coast. As per rescuers, some 35 whales are alive and warned of difficult rescue efforts.

Nearly 200 pilot whales die on Tasmania's west coast after being stranded

Whales are among the most majestic beings on our planet. They have always fascinated human beings. People in Argentina witness something horrifying. Bodies of 13 Southern right whales have been found.

WION Climate Tracker | Argentina: Scientists conduct autopsies to assess cause of death of 13 whales

<p>Recently, 44 pilot whales discovered to be alive have been successfully pulled back into the water after being stranded on Tasmania's west coast.</p>

<p>Last Wednesday, over 230 pilot whales were reported to be stranded on the beach, but by the time rescuers arrived, over 170 had already perished. By Sunday, the death toll of stranded whales had reached nearly 200. They were chained together and towed out into the ocean, expected to float ashore.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/230-pilots-whales-stranded-in-the-same-spot-where-350-died-two-years-ago-518309"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Australia: Nearly 200 pilot whales die on Tasmania's west coast after being stranded</strong></a></p>

<p>Locals tried to save whales by covering them in wet clothes, but that didn't help much.</p>

<p>However, amongst 44 alive whales, two of them were discovered to be giant oceanic dolphins. The mammals were saved by towing them one-by-one into whalers off the coast with the help of state government employees, veterinarians, locals, and volunteers from the nearby area.</p>

<p>Nic Deka, the incident's controller for rescue, expressed her gratitude for volunteering to save the aquatic animals. Authorities in the region have issued a warning that carcasses might wash up in the following weeks and announced that surveillance planes would be flying over the area to keep an eye on them, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-the-reason-behind-death-of-nearly-200-pilot-whales-on-tasmanias-west-coast-518650"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;What led to the death of nearly 200 pilot whales at a Tasmanian beach?</strong></a></p>

<p>The authorities have further requested people who see any whales stranded&nbsp;in the area contact them immediately.</p>

<p>Similar instance of mass stranding happened exactly two years ago. At that time, Ocean Beach had approximately 470 whales.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per experts, the reason for this mass stranding might never be discovered. But due to the heavy mass standing there, it is known as a "whale trap."</p>

<p>As per tracking satellite data, two of the saved whales are predicted to be swimming nearby.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Recently, 44 pilot whales discovered to be alive have been successfully pulled back into the water after being stranded on Tasmania's west coast. Last Wednesday, over 230 pilot whales were reported to be stranded on the beach, but by the time rescuers arrived, over 170 had already perished.

Recently, 44 pilot whales discovered to be alive have been successfully pulled back into the water after being stranded on Tasmania's west coast. Last Wednesday, over 230 pilot whales were reported to be stranded on the beach, but by the time rescuers arrived, over 170 had already perished. By Sunday, the death toll of stranded whales had reached nearly 200. They were chained together and towed out into the ocean, expected to float ashore. Also read | Australia: Nearly 200 pilot whales die on Tasmania's west coast after being stranded Locals tried to save whales by covering them in wet clothes, but that didn't help much. However, amongst 44 alive whales, two of them were discovered to be giant oceanic dolphins. The mammals were saved by towing them one-by-one into whalers off the coast with the help of state government employees, veterinarians, locals, and volunteers from the nearby area. Nic Deka, the incident's controller for rescue, expressed her gratitude for volunteering to save the aquatic animals. Authorities in the region have issued a warning that carcasses might wash up in the following weeks and announced that surveillance planes would be flying over the area to keep an eye on them, The Guardian reported. Also read | What led to the death of nearly 200 pilot whales at a Tasmanian beach? The authorities have further requested people who see any whales stranded in the area contact them immediately. Similar instance of mass stranding happened exactly two years ago. At that time, Ocean Beach had approximately 470 whales. As per experts, the reason for this mass stranding might never be discovered. But due to the heavy mass standing there, it is known as a "whale trap." As per tracking satellite data, two of the saved whales are predicted to be swimming nearby. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australia: 44 pilot whales rescued and returned to sea at Tasmania's west coast

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<p>Nearly 200 whales have died after becoming stranded on a beach on Tasmania's west coast. As per rescuers, some 35 whales are alive and warned of difficult rescue efforts.</p>

<p>Brendon Clark, the operating manager said, "We have got about 35 surviving animals out on the beach and the primary focus this morning will be on the rescue and release of these animals," AFP reported.</p>

<p>According to the department of natural resources, the whales were stuck near the harbour entrance, more popularly known as Hells gates. "A pod of approximately 230 whales is stranded near Macquarie Harbour. It appears about half of the animals are alive," the department earlier said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sperm-whales-found-dead-en-masse-on-australian-island-518176">Sperm whales found dead en masse on Australian island</a></strong></p>

<p>It further said that Environment Tasmania Marine Conservation Programme (MCP) was working on assembling the whale rescue gear and heading to the location which is far from the mainland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Remarking that whales are a protected species, the department added that 'even once deceased, it is an offence to interfere with a carcass'.</p>

<p>The locals in an effort to keep the whales alive until professional assistance came, covered some&nbsp;with blankets and soaked them with buckets of seawater. However, despite these efforts, over 300 whales have died in Tasmania so far.</p>

<p>Various aerial images of numerous glossy black mammals were captured who were stranded on the end of the beach.</p>

<p><strong>An unfortunate coincidence</strong></p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that two years ago on September 21, the same date as today, one of Australia's worst mass whale stranding incidents was recorded. At the time, over 470 pilot whales were stranded in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An elaborate rescue operation was launched at the time as well. And while 111 whales were saved, 350 lost their lives, leaving the humongous task of disposing of their carcasses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>A beluga whale died in France</strong></p>

<p>As reported by WION, in August, a beluga whale strayed into the polluted Seine river in France, away from its natural habitat of the frigid cold waters of the Arctic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Read more:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-beluga-whale-stranded-in-seine-river-dies-during-rescue-attempt-505541" target="_blank"><strong>&nbsp;France: Beluga whale stranded in Seine river dies during rescue attempt</strong></a></p>

<p>The protected species animal was stuck in the river which flows through Paris to the channel. Despite the authorities attempting to guide the whale, it wasn't able to find its way</p>

<p>Eventually, the white mammal died after a week, having starved and become excessively thin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Nearly 200 whales have died after becoming stranded on a beach on Tasmania's west coast. As per rescuers, some 35 whales are alive and warned of difficult rescue efforts. Brendon Clark, the operating manager said, "We have got about 35 surviving animals out on the beach and the primary focus this morning will be on the rescue and release of these animals," AFP reported. According to the department of natural resources, the whales were stuck near the harbour entrance, more popularly known as Hells gates. "A pod of approximately 230 whales is stranded near Macquarie Harbour. It appears about half of the animals are alive," the department earlier said in a statement. Read more: Sperm whales found dead en masse on Australian island It further said that Environment Tasmania Marine Conservation Programme (MCP) was working on assembling the whale rescue gear and heading to the location which is far from the mainland. Remarking that whales are a protected species, the department added that 'even once deceased, it is an offence to interfere with a carcass'. The locals in an effort to keep the whales alive until professional assistance came, covered some with blankets and soaked them with buckets of seawater. However, despite these efforts, over 300 whales have died in Tasmania so far. Various aerial images of numerous glossy black mammals were captured who were stranded on the end of the beach. An unfortunate coincidence It is pertinent to note that two years ago on September 21, the same date as today, one of Australia's worst mass whale stranding incidents was recorded. At the time, over 470 pilot whales were stranded in the region. An elaborate rescue operation was launched at the time as well. And while 111 whales were saved, 350 lost their lives, leaving the humongous task of disposing of their carcasses. A beluga whale died in France As reported by WION, in August, a beluga whale strayed into the polluted Seine river in France, away from its natural habitat of the frigid cold waters of the Arctic. Read more: France: Beluga whale stranded in Seine river dies during rescue attempt The protected species animal was stuck in the river which flows through Paris to the channel. Despite the authorities attempting to guide the whale, it wasn't able to find its way Eventually, the white mammal died after a week, having starved and become excessively thin. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia: Nearly 200 pilot whales die on Tasmania's west coast after being stranded

Whales, the gentle giants of the oceans are found in every ocean around the world. Humpback whales are also famed for their magical songs and these songs can travel great distances through the world's oceans.

WION Climate Tracker| Whales: The ultimate communicator? | Whales songs travel up to 8000 KM

<p>Whales have always been thought of as the smartest of mammals. Now a study published by the Royal Society Open Science has found that humpback whales communicate using songs that traverse through the length and breadth of the ocean, as far as 8000 kilometres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, a team of researchers at Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Ecuador recorded songs first heard from the humpback whales off the coast of eastern Australia. Fast forward a few years and the same song was picked up all the way in Ecuador, suggesting that the voice travelled across the South Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“Half the globe is now vocally connected for whales. And that’s insane,” Ellen Garland, author of the study and a marine biologist at the University of St. Andrews was quoted as saying by the New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-rescuers-save-stranded-dolphins-using-buckets-and-towels-506224" target="_blank">New Zealand rescuers save stranded dolphins using buckets and towels</a></p>

<p>Fascinatingly, the songs sung by the humpback whale may change over time. The authors of the study attributed the change to two different phenomenons viz. progressive cultural evolution and cultural revolution.</p>

<p>In the first category, the songs follow the basic evolutionary process wherein different whales subtract, add or delete their units and phrases in the song. The little changes in each iteration of the song slowly lead to a completely different version that then spreads around in the colony.</p>

<p>In the second category, a neighbouring population comes around with its novel song and the existing whale population quickly laps it up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers cited an example of a male song on the east coast of Australia singing a completely different song compared to the local whales. However, it matched the song sung on the west coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Within two years, all males month the east coast started singing the same song, suggesting that the cultural revolution amongst the whales was much more rapid than we had thought of previously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These really rapid cultural changes are not seen in any other animal species, it’s happened so fast.” added Garland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Garland also asserted that these songs travelled when neighbouring groups of whales passed within an acoustic range of each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This passing usually happens when whales are leaving their breeding grounds and migrating to foraging grounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it is still unclear what the songs stand for. Whether the male whales use it as a mating call with females or to mediate male-to-male interaction or as a multi-message signal, it remains shrouded in clouds of mystery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-suggests-now-extinct-megalodon-shark-could-devour-killer-whale-in-just-five-bites-508143" target="_blank">Research suggests now-extinct megalodon shark could devour killer whale in just five bites</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Whales have always been thought of as the smartest of mammals. Now a study published by the Royal Society Open Science has found that humpback whales communicate using songs that traverse through the length and breadth of the ocean, as far as 8000 kilometres.

Whales have always been thought of as the smartest of mammals. Now a study published by the Royal Society Open Science has found that humpback whales communicate using songs that traverse through the length and breadth of the ocean, as far as 8000 kilometres. Reportedly, a team of researchers at Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Ecuador recorded songs first heard from the humpback whales off the coast of eastern Australia. Fast forward a few years and the same song was picked up all the way in Ecuador, suggesting that the voice travelled across the South Pacific Ocean. “Half the globe is now vocally connected for whales. And that’s insane,” Ellen Garland, author of the study and a marine biologist at the University of St. Andrews was quoted as saying by the New York Times. Read more: New Zealand rescuers save stranded dolphins using buckets and towels Fascinatingly, the songs sung by the humpback whale may change over time. The authors of the study attributed the change to two different phenomenons viz. progressive cultural evolution and cultural revolution. In the first category, the songs follow the basic evolutionary process wherein different whales subtract, add or delete their units and phrases in the song. The little changes in each iteration of the song slowly lead to a completely different version that then spreads around in the colony. In the second category, a neighbouring population comes around with its novel song and the existing whale population quickly laps it up. Researchers cited an example of a male song on the east coast of Australia singing a completely different song compared to the local whales. However, it matched the song sung on the west coast. Within two years, all males month the east coast started singing the same song, suggesting that the cultural revolution amongst the whales was much more rapid than we had thought of previously. “These really rapid cultural changes are not seen in any other animal species, it’s happened so fast.” added Garland. Garland also asserted that these songs travelled when neighbouring groups of whales passed within an acoustic range of each other. This passing usually happens when whales are leaving their breeding grounds and migrating to foraging grounds. However, it is still unclear what the songs stand for. Whether the male whales use it as a mating call with females or to mediate male-to-male interaction or as a multi-message signal, it remains shrouded in clouds of mystery. Read more: Research suggests now-extinct megalodon shark could devour killer whale in just five bites (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Humpback whales sing songs that can travel half the length of planet: Study

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<p>Whales have always been thought of as the smartest of mammals. Now a study published by the Royal Society Open Science has found that humpback whales communicate using songs that traverse through the length and breadth of the ocean, as far as 8000 kilometres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, a team of researchers at Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Ecuador recorded songs first heard from the humpback whales off the coast of eastern Australia. Fast forward a few years and the same song was picked up all the way in Ecuador, suggesting that the voice travelled across the South Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“Half the globe is now vocally connected for whales. And that’s insane,” Ellen Garland, author of the study and a marine biologist at the University of St. Andrews was quoted as saying by the New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-rescuers-save-stranded-dolphins-using-buckets-and-towels-506224" target="_blank">New Zealand rescuers save stranded dolphins using buckets and towels</a></p>

<p>Fascinatingly, the songs sung by the humpback whale may change over time. The authors of the study attributed the change to two different phenomenons viz. progressive cultural evolution and cultural revolution.</p>

<p>In the first category, the songs follow the basic evolutionary process wherein different whales subtract, add or delete their units and phrases in the song. The little changes in each iteration of the song slowly lead to a completely different version that then spreads around in the colony.</p>

<p>In the second category, a neighbouring population comes around with its novel song and the existing whale population quickly laps it up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers cited an example of a male song on the east coast of Australia singing a completely different song compared to the local whales. However, it matched the song sung on the west coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Within two years, all males month the east coast started singing the same song, suggesting that the cultural revolution amongst the whales was much more rapid than we had thought of previously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These really rapid cultural changes are not seen in any other animal species, it’s happened so fast.” added Garland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Garland also asserted that these songs travelled when neighbouring groups of whales passed within an acoustic range of each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This passing usually happens when whales are leaving their breeding grounds and migrating to foraging grounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it is still unclear what the songs stand for. Whether the male whales use it as a mating call with females or to mediate male-to-male interaction or as a multi-message signal, it remains shrouded in clouds of mystery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-suggests-now-extinct-megalodon-shark-could-devour-killer-whale-in-just-five-bites-508143" target="_blank">Research suggests now-extinct megalodon shark could devour killer whale in just five bites</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Humpback whales sing songs that can travel half the length of planet

In a significant feat, biologists also spot 3 North Atlantic right whales species that are endangered. They also spotted a mother-calf pair.

3 North Atlantic right whales species spotted, biologists also spot a mother-calf pair

More than two dozen whales died in a mass stranding at the remote Farewell Spit beach. The beach is known as a "death trap" for whales. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Dozens of Whales die in a mass stranding

<p>'How far will you go for me?' is perhaps the most cliched question lovers ask each other just to tease. By this literal measure, humpaback whales should be called the most ardent lovers on the planet. Because a study says that they swim across oceans crossing more than 3000 miles just to find a mate.</p>

<p>For this study, the scientists took a look at and analyzed more than 450,000 pictures of whales in the wild in order to track movements of the animal. Scientists found that the whales travelled thousands of miles in search of a mate.</p>

<p>The researcher tracked two distinctive males that had unique markings on their tails. They were observed off the western coast of Mexico and near Hawaii in a span of less than two months. The distance between these two oceanic regions is 3700 miles. The time taken by the whales to swim the distance revealed that they were swimming a bit faster than their typical speed of 2.5 miles per hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They might just be traveling the ocean like it's their own backyard," said James Darling of the Whale Trust Maui in Hawaii and an author on the study. He was quoted by The New Scientist.</p>

<p>So next time you have to go the extra mile for your significant other, don't crib too much. Just try to keep up with the race to be a good lover. You probably would never win it. Doesn't hurt to try,&nbsp;eh?</p>


'How far will you go for me?' is perhaps the most cliched question lovers ask each other just to tease. By this literal measure, humpaback whales should be called the most ardent lovers on the planet.

'How far will you go for me?' is perhaps the most cliched question lovers ask each other just to tease. By this literal measure, humpaback whales should be called the most ardent lovers on the planet. Because a study says that they swim across oceans crossing more than 3000 miles just to find a mate. For this study, the scientists took a look at and analyzed more than 450,000 pictures of whales in the wild in order to track movements of the animal. Scientists found that the whales travelled thousands of miles in search of a mate. The researcher tracked two distinctive males that had unique markings on their tails. They were observed off the western coast of Mexico and near Hawaii in a span of less than two months. The distance between these two oceanic regions is 3700 miles. The time taken by the whales to swim the distance revealed that they were swimming a bit faster than their typical speed of 2.5 miles per hour. "They might just be traveling the ocean like it's their own backyard," said James Darling of the Whale Trust Maui in Hawaii and an author on the study. He was quoted by The New Scientist. So next time you have to go the extra mile for your significant other, don't crib too much. Just try to keep up with the race to be a good lover. You probably would never win it. Doesn't hurt to try, eh?

Humpback whales swim more than 3000 miles to find a lover, says study

<p>With the goal of 'talking' to the majestic marine animals, a project to listen to, contextualise and translate the communication of Sperm whales was recently launched by a team of international scientists. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Called Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative), the initiative looks to harness the power of artificial intelligence to interpret clicking sounds, or 'codas,' which these whales make to communicate with one another. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-is-mysterious-dark-energy-leading-to-expansion-of-the-universe-425187" hreflang="en">Why is mysterious dark energy leading to expansion of the universe?</a></strong></p>

<p>The researchers have been using natural language processing or NLP, a subfield of artificial intelligence focused on processing written and spoken human language. It will be trained in four billion Sperm whale codas. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the researchers, the plan is to have the AI correlate each sound with a specific context. This feat will take at least five years. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/during-halloween-weekend-solar-flare-helps-northern-lights-become-visible-to-us-425602" hreflang="en">During Halloween weekend, solar flare helps northern lights become visible to US</a></strong></p>

<p>If the team achieves these goals, the next step would be to develop and deploy an interactive chatbot, which engages in dialogue with Sperm whales living in the wild. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Michael Bronstein, lead, machine learning for Project CETI, told Hakai, "If we discover that there is an entire civilisation basically under our nose — maybe it will result in some shift in the way that we treat our environment. And maybe it will result in more respect for the living world." &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


With the goal of 'talking' to the majestic marine animals, a project to listen to, contextualise and translate the communication of Sperm whales was recently launched by a team of international scientists.

With the goal of 'talking' to the majestic marine animals, a project to listen to, contextualise and translate the communication of Sperm whales was recently launched by a team of international scientists. Called Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative), the initiative looks to harness the power of artificial intelligence to interpret clicking sounds, or 'codas,' which these whales make to communicate with one another. Also Read: Why is mysterious dark energy leading to expansion of the universe? The researchers have been using natural language processing or NLP, a subfield of artificial intelligence focused on processing written and spoken human language. It will be trained in four billion Sperm whale codas. According to the researchers, the plan is to have the AI correlate each sound with a specific context. This feat will take at least five years. Also Read: During Halloween weekend, solar flare helps northern lights become visible to US If the team achieves these goals, the next step would be to develop and deploy an interactive chatbot, which engages in dialogue with Sperm whales living in the wild. Michael Bronstein, lead, machine learning for Project CETI, told Hakai, "If we discover that there is an entire civilisation basically under our nose — maybe it will result in some shift in the way that we treat our environment. And maybe it will result in more respect for the living world." (With inputs from agencies)

Humans may get to talk to whales, courtesy artificial intelligence

<p>The World Marine Foundation on Tuesday said that rescue teams were successful in saving two stranded whales along Atlantic coast of Argentina.</p>

<p>The whales were stranded on a beach in seaside resort town of La Lucila del Mar. The town is 220&nbsp;miles (360 kilometres south of Argentina's capital Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>"The first, which was stranded on Sunday, was a juvenile female humpback whale, 32 feet (9.8 meters) long and approximately eight tons in weight," the conservation group said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second fish, which "is a male of the same species, 28 feet long, and approximately seven tons, appeared Monday night," the foundation added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>About 30 people participated in the rescue. This included local residents, marine conservationists, Civil Defense members, coast guard officers, firefighters, volunteers and beach lifeguards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Their collective efforts allowed the animals to return to the sea, the statement said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Upon arriving to survey the first animal's situation, primary support efforts were immediately carried out, including assuring the individual's position allowed it to breathe, keeping its pectoral fins underwater in order to stabilize its body temperature as much as possible," the organization said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The whole procedure was "difficult," the group said. At one point, the force of the waves knocked the whale over so that the mammal's blowhole was underwater and it was unable to breathe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thanks to a quick action, they were able to turn it over," said Sergio Rodriguez Heredia, a biologist at the World Marine Foundation's Rescue Center.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rescuers tucked cables underneath the whale's body -- connected to a huge backhoe tractor crane -- hoping to free it from the sandy sea floor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The workers noticed the second whale overnight, seeing it was in a "good state of health," said Augusto Giachetti, director of the Civil Defense's coastal division.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They waited until dawn to begin the second whale's rescue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was necessary to realign the animal, using the assistance of a backhoe and special cables to move it a big enough distance that it was able to float," he Giachetti said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once the whale realized it was able to float, it swam out to sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The World Marine Foundation on Tuesday said that rescue teams were successful in saving two stranded whales along Atlantic coast of Argentina. The whales were stranded on a beach in seaside resort town of La Lucila del Mar.

The World Marine Foundation on Tuesday said that rescue teams were successful in saving two stranded whales along Atlantic coast of Argentina. The whales were stranded on a beach in seaside resort town of La Lucila del Mar. The town is 220 miles (360 kilometres south of Argentina's capital Buenos Aires. "The first, which was stranded on Sunday, was a juvenile female humpback whale, 32 feet (9.8 meters) long and approximately eight tons in weight," the conservation group said in a statement. The second fish, which "is a male of the same species, 28 feet long, and approximately seven tons, appeared Monday night," the foundation added. About 30 people participated in the rescue. This included local residents, marine conservationists, Civil Defense members, coast guard officers, firefighters, volunteers and beach lifeguards. Their collective efforts allowed the animals to return to the sea, the statement said. "Upon arriving to survey the first animal's situation, primary support efforts were immediately carried out, including assuring the individual's position allowed it to breathe, keeping its pectoral fins underwater in order to stabilize its body temperature as much as possible," the organization said. The whole procedure was "difficult," the group said. At one point, the force of the waves knocked the whale over so that the mammal's blowhole was underwater and it was unable to breathe. "Thanks to a quick action, they were able to turn it over," said Sergio Rodriguez Heredia, a biologist at the World Marine Foundation's Rescue Center. Rescuers tucked cables underneath the whale's body -- connected to a huge backhoe tractor crane -- hoping to free it from the sandy sea floor. The workers noticed the second whale overnight, seeing it was in a "good state of health," said Augusto Giachetti, director of the Civil Defense's coastal division. They waited until dawn to begin the second whale's rescue. "It was necessary to realign the animal, using the assistance of a backhoe and special cables to move it a big enough distance that it was able to float," he Giachetti said. Once the whale realized it was able to float, it swam out to sea. (With inputs from agencies)

Two beached humpback whales rescued in Argentina

Once hunted to near extinction, whales continue to face threats from marine pollution, ships & abandoned fishing gear. Why must these evolutionary marvels be protected?

Wion Wideangle: Whales under attack: Calls from the deep

Whales under attack: Calls from the deep | WION Wideangle

<p>A new study suggests that whales&nbsp;have a long lifespan for mammals and they tend to be resistant to cancer.</p>

<p>These properties are also found in&nbsp;dolphins and porpoises. In general, when a creature has more cells in its body, they are expected to be more vulnerable to random mutations that can develop into cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p>According to&nbsp;lead author Daniela Tejada-Martinez at the Austral University of Chile,&nbsp;"Given this, we would expect that large and long-lived species, such as whales, have a higher rate of cancer than in small species.''</p>

<p>So how to explain the longevity of the bowhead whale, which can reach 60 feet in length, weigh up to around 200,000 pounds (nearly 100 tonnes) and live for more than 200 years?&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The way in which the different species throughout their evolutionary history managed to fight cancer remains a mystery," Tejada-Martinez said.</p>

<p>This is known as Peto's paradox when some species do not have an incidence of cancer that correlates with their cell count.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>To investigate this, researchers tracked the evolution of 1,077 tumour suppressor genes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, found signs of positive genetic selection in key regulators of DNA-damage and the immune system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The turnover rate for these tumour suppression genes was almost 2.4 times higher in cetaceans than other mammals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers also identified duplication of 11 genes linked to longevity. But the patterns of gene evolution varied by species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Baleen whales, for example, had molecular variants in their tumour-suppressing genes and a fast turnover rate, which may explain the evolution of their "gigantism and longevity", said Tejada-Martinez.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bottlenose dolphin, however, had the lowest number of gene copies among the cetaceans studied.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since this species is associated with an increased incidence of cancer, the authors hypothesised that this suggests a higher rate of tumour suppressor gene copies could mean a lower risk of developing cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The link between evolutionary biology and medicine allows a more complete understanding of how the different forms of genetic variations contribute to cancer resistance and the ageing evolution in cetaceans," said Tejada-Martinez.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The discovery of new molecular variants including additional copies of genes could be the key to reveal new biological pathways that could lead to the creation of innovative treatments for cancer and age-related diseases."</p>


A new study suggests that whales have a long lifespan for mammals and they tend to be resistant to cancer. These properties are also found in dolphins and porpoises.

A new study suggests that whales have a long lifespan for mammals and they tend to be resistant to cancer. These properties are also found in dolphins and porpoises. In general, when a creature has more cells in its body, they are expected to be more vulnerable to random mutations that can develop into cancer. According to lead author Daniela Tejada-Martinez at the Austral University of Chile, "Given this, we would expect that large and long-lived species, such as whales, have a higher rate of cancer than in small species.'' So how to explain the longevity of the bowhead whale, which can reach 60 feet in length, weigh up to around 200,000 pounds (nearly 100 tonnes) and live for more than 200 years? "The way in which the different species throughout their evolutionary history managed to fight cancer remains a mystery," Tejada-Martinez said. This is known as Peto's paradox when some species do not have an incidence of cancer that correlates with their cell count. To investigate this, researchers tracked the evolution of 1,077 tumour suppressor genes. The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, found signs of positive genetic selection in key regulators of DNA-damage and the immune system. The turnover rate for these tumour suppression genes was almost 2.4 times higher in cetaceans than other mammals. Researchers also identified duplication of 11 genes linked to longevity. But the patterns of gene evolution varied by species. Baleen whales, for example, had molecular variants in their tumour-suppressing genes and a fast turnover rate, which may explain the evolution of their "gigantism and longevity", said Tejada-Martinez. The bottlenose dolphin, however, had the lowest number of gene copies among the cetaceans studied. Since this species is associated with an increased incidence of cancer, the authors hypothesised that this suggests a higher rate of tumour suppressor gene copies could mean a lower risk of developing cancer. "The link between evolutionary biology and medicine allows a more complete understanding of how the different forms of genetic variations contribute to cancer resistance and the ageing evolution in cetaceans," said Tejada-Martinez. "The discovery of new molecular variants including additional copies of genes could be the key to reveal new biological pathways that could lead to the creation of innovative treatments for cancer and age-related diseases."

Study reveals whales are cancer resistence 'in their genes'

<p>Weighing up to 380,000 pounds and stretching some 100 feet long, the blue whale — the largest creature to have ever lived on Earth — might at first seem difficult for human eyes and ears to miss.</p>

<p>But a previously unknown population of the leviathans has long been lurking in the Indian Ocean, leaving scientists none the wiser, new research suggests.</p>

<p>The covert cadre of whales, described in a paper published last week in the journal Endangered Species Research, has its own signature anthem: a slow, bellowing ballad that’s distinct from any other whale song ever described. It joins only a dozen or so other blue whale songs that have been documented, each the calling card of a unique population.</p>

<p>“It’s like hearing different songs within a genre — Stevie Ray Vaughan versus B.B. King,” said Salvatore Cerchio, a marine mammal biologist at the African Aquatic Conservation Fund in Massachusetts and the study’s lead author. “It’s all blues, but you know the different styles.”</p>

<p>The find is “a great reminder that our oceans are still this very unexplored place,” said Asha de Vos, a marine biologist who has studied blue whales in the Indian Ocean but was not involved in the new study.</p>

<p>Cerchio and his colleagues first tuned into the whales’ newfound song while in scientific pursuit of a pod of Omura’s whales off the coast of Madagascar several years ago. After hearing the rumblings of blue whales via a recorder planted on the coastal shelf, the researchers decided to drop their instruments into deeper water in the hopes of eavesdropping further.</p>

<p>“If you put a hydrophone somewhere no one has put a hydrophone before, you’re going to discover something,” Cerchio said.</p>

<p>A number of blue whale populations, each with its own characteristic croon, have long been known to visit this pocket of the Indian Ocean, Cerchio said. But one of the songs that crackled through the team’s Madagascar recordings was unlike any the researchers had heard.</p>

<p>By 2018, the team had picked up on several more instances of the new whales’ now-recognizable refrain. Partnerships with other researchers soon revealed that the distinctive calls had been detected at another recording outpost off the coast of Oman, in the Arabian Sea, where the sounds seem particularly prevalent. Another windfall came later that year when Cerchio learned that colleagues in Australia had heard the whales crooning the same song in the central Indian Ocean, near the Chagos Archipelago.</p>

<p>Data amassed from the three sites, each separated from the others by hundreds or thousands of miles, painted a rough portrait of a pod of whales moseying about in the Indian Ocean’s northwest and perhaps beyond.</p>

<p>Using acoustic data to pin down a new population is, by nature, indirect, like dusting for fingerprints at the scene of a crime. But Alex Carbaugh-Rutland, who studies blue whales at Texas A&amp;M University and was not involved in the study, said the results “were very sound, no pun intended.”</p>

<p>The researchers ruled out the possibility that the songs could be attributed to other species of whales. And side-by-side comparisons of the new blue whale tune with others showed convincingly that the northwestern Indian Ocean variety was distinct, Carbaugh-Rutland said. “I think it’s really compelling evidence,” he said, drawing a comparison to linguistic dialects.</p>

<p>Genetic samples would help clinch the case, he added. But blue whales, which spend most of their time far from shore, are difficult to study. Whaling in the 19th and 20th centuries also culled hundreds of thousands from their ranks; an estimated 10,000 to 25,000 blue whales are thought to remain.</p>

<p>Not much is known about blue whale songs, although most researchers think that they help males woo their mates, as is the case with closely related species. That can make any modifications to a cetacean melody fairly high stakes, de Vos said: “If two populations can’t talk to each other, over time, they’re going to grow apart.”</p>

<p>Eventually, populations with different takes on a tune might splinter into subspecies, with their own behaviors and quirks. There’s not yet evidence to show that has happened with these blue whales, nor much information on what might have driven them apart from their southerly kin. But even if the whales in this new group don’t yet formally occupy a new branch on the tree of life, they are worth getting to know.</p>

<p>“What things like this show us is that there are different populations, with different adaptations, with potentially different needs,” de Vos said. To conserve the world’s blue whales, she said, “there’s not one single protection measure that’s going to work.”</p>


Weighing up to 380,000 pounds and stretching some 100 feet long, the blue whale — the largest creature to have ever lived on Earth — might at first seem difficult for human eyes and ears to miss.

Weighing up to 380,000 pounds and stretching some 100 feet long, the blue whale — the largest creature to have ever lived on Earth — might at first seem difficult for human eyes and ears to miss. But a previously unknown population of the leviathans has long been lurking in the Indian Ocean, leaving scientists none the wiser, new research suggests. The covert cadre of whales, described in a paper published last week in the journal Endangered Species Research, has its own signature anthem: a slow, bellowing ballad that’s distinct from any other whale song ever described. It joins only a dozen or so other blue whale songs that have been documented, each the calling card of a unique population. “It’s like hearing different songs within a genre — Stevie Ray Vaughan versus B.B. King,” said Salvatore Cerchio, a marine mammal biologist at the African Aquatic Conservation Fund in Massachusetts and the study’s lead author. “It’s all blues, but you know the different styles.” The find is “a great reminder that our oceans are still this very unexplored place,” said Asha de Vos, a marine biologist who has studied blue whales in the Indian Ocean but was not involved in the new study. Cerchio and his colleagues first tuned into the whales’ newfound song while in scientific pursuit of a pod of Omura’s whales off the coast of Madagascar several years ago. After hearing the rumblings of blue whales via a recorder planted on the coastal shelf, the researchers decided to drop their instruments into deeper water in the hopes of eavesdropping further. “If you put a hydrophone somewhere no one has put a hydrophone before, you’re going to discover something,” Cerchio said. A number of blue whale populations, each with its own characteristic croon, have long been known to visit this pocket of the Indian Ocean, Cerchio said. But one of the songs that crackled through the team’s Madagascar recordings was unlike any the researchers had heard. By 2018, the team had picked up on several more instances of the new whales’ now-recognizable refrain. Partnerships with other researchers soon revealed that the distinctive calls had been detected at another recording outpost off the coast of Oman, in the Arabian Sea, where the sounds seem particularly prevalent. Another windfall came later that year when Cerchio learned that colleagues in Australia had heard the whales crooning the same song in the central Indian Ocean, near the Chagos Archipelago. Data amassed from the three sites, each separated from the others by hundreds or thousands of miles, painted a rough portrait of a pod of whales moseying about in the Indian Ocean’s northwest and perhaps beyond. Using acoustic data to pin down a new population is, by nature, indirect, like dusting for fingerprints at the scene of a crime. But Alex Carbaugh-Rutland, who studies blue whales at Texas A&M University and was not involved in the study, said the results “were very sound, no pun intended.” The researchers ruled out the possibility that the songs could be attributed to other species of whales. And side-by-side comparisons of the new blue whale tune with others showed convincingly that the northwestern Indian Ocean variety was distinct, Carbaugh-Rutland said. “I think it’s really compelling evidence,” he said, drawing a comparison to linguistic dialects. Genetic samples would help clinch the case, he added. But blue whales, which spend most of their time far from shore, are difficult to study. Whaling in the 19th and 20th centuries also culled hundreds of thousands from their ranks; an estimated 10,000 to 25,000 blue whales are thought to remain. Not much is known about blue whale songs, although most researchers think that they help males woo their mates, as is the case with closely related species. That can make any modifications to a cetacean melody fairly high stakes, de Vos said: “If two populations can’t talk to each other, over time, they’re going to grow apart.” Eventually, populations with different takes on a tune might splinter into subspecies, with their own behaviors and quirks. There’s not yet evidence to show that has happened with these blue whales, nor much information on what might have driven them apart from their southerly kin. But even if the whales in this new group don’t yet formally occupy a new branch on the tree of life, they are worth getting to know. “What things like this show us is that there are different populations, with different adaptations, with potentially different needs,” de Vos said. To conserve the world’s blue whales, she said, “there’s not one single protection measure that’s going to work.”

A new population of Blue Whales was discovered hiding in the Indian Ocean

Researchers believe they have found a previously unknown species of beaked whale in waters off Mexico's western coast. If confirmed, the new species would mark a significant discovery among giant mammals.

Researchers think they spotted new whale species off Mexico

Villagers and the Sri Lankan navy worked throughout the night to refloat beached whales, but not all were saved and carcasses of some lay scattered on the beach on Tuesday (November 3).

Sri Lankan navy, villagers work through night to rescue stranded whales

<p>Australian wildlife officials began disposing of hundreds of dead pilot whales on Saturday after concluding there was no longer any hope of rescuing any more.</p>

<p>In Australia's biggest whale beaching, 470 whales&nbsp;were first spotted on a wide sandbank during an aerial reconnaissance of rugged Macquarie Harbour in Tasmania state on Monday.</p>

<p>After days of difficult and dangerous rescue attempts, Australia said they rescued 108 whales, with the rest now believed to have died.</p>

<p>Rob Buck, Incident Controller and Parks and Wildlife Service manager, said 15 whales have already been disposed of at sea, but the operations to dispose of the remaining near 350 mammals was expected to take several days at least.</p>

<p>"Collection and disposal is being undertaken with the assistance of aquaculture companies whose equipment and expertise on the harbour is essential for a timely and effective outcome," Buck said in an emailed statement.</p>

<p>The bodies of the dead whales were being separated into groups and enclosed with water booms to try keep them in one place and isolated from sharks and other predators.</p>

<p>Most of the released whales, a gregarious species that lives in deep waters, were expected to "regroup" and recover from the traumatic event, officials said.</p>


Australian wildlife officials began disposing of hundreds of dead pilot whales on Saturday after concluding there was no longer any hope of rescuing any more. In Australia's biggest whale beaching, 470 whales were first spotted on a wide sandbank during an aerial reconnaissance of rugged Macquarie Harbour in Tasmania state on Monday.

Australian wildlife officials began disposing of hundreds of dead pilot whales on Saturday after concluding there was no longer any hope of rescuing any more. In Australia's biggest whale beaching, 470 whales were first spotted on a wide sandbank during an aerial reconnaissance of rugged Macquarie Harbour in Tasmania state on Monday. After days of difficult and dangerous rescue attempts, Australia said they rescued 108 whales, with the rest now believed to have died. Rob Buck, Incident Controller and Parks and Wildlife Service manager, said 15 whales have already been disposed of at sea, but the operations to dispose of the remaining near 350 mammals was expected to take several days at least. "Collection and disposal is being undertaken with the assistance of aquaculture companies whose equipment and expertise on the harbour is essential for a timely and effective outcome," Buck said in an emailed statement. The bodies of the dead whales were being separated into groups and enclosed with water booms to try keep them in one place and isolated from sharks and other predators. Most of the released whales, a gregarious species that lives in deep waters, were expected to "regroup" and recover from the traumatic event, officials said.

Australia begins disposing hundreds of dead whales after rescuing 108

The majority of a 470-strong pod of pilot whales found stranded off Australia's remote southern coast has died, officials said on Wednesday (September 23) as rescuers struggled in freezing waters and fading light to free those still alive.

Australia: At least 380 pilot whales dead in mass stranding

Hundreds of pilot whales are stranded on a sandbar in Tasmania. What explains the mass whale stranding? Whales have tight family bonds - and they tend to stick together.

Gravitas: Hundreds of whales stranded on sandbar in Australia

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