Researchers document record humpback whale journeyrecord humpback whale journey
Researchers have documented the longest known humpback whale journey, with two whales traveling between Australia and Brazil, based on photos and published findings reported on May 20.
The discovery matters because it expands scientific understanding of how far humpback whales can migrate and supports a theory that some populations may cross the Southern Ocean between feeding and breeding grounds.
- Humpbacks can migrate thousands of miles each year between polar feeding areas and warmer breeding waters.
- Their tails, or flukes, often carry distinctive markings that help researchers identify individuals.
- The species was once heavily hunted, but many populations have rebounded under modern protections.
