WorldWideWhale.com
A Web site dedicated to Cetaceans, the whales and dolphins of this blue planet,
and the people who fight to save them.
and the people who fight to save them.
January 01, 2008
Government silent on whaler watching
full story...
December 24, 2007
Ferry speed called key to collisions with whales
full story...
December 22, 2007
Japan commits to commercial whaling despite humpback backdown
full story...
December 21, 2007
More action needed to save whales
full story...
Surface Threats !
The popularity of the orca whales of the Pacific Northwest has a dark side as dozens of whale-watching vessels follow the whales as they travel through the area. Although there are specific laws regulating this activity, many operators choose to ignore these laws in order to give their passengers a "better experience." The surfacing and breathing space of killer whales is a critical aspect of their habitat which they must consciously deal with on a moment-to-moment basis throughout their lifetimes.
The hazards to the whales from whale watching expeditions are threefold:
The first two hazards are obvious but the third is one that most people don't even consider. Idling boats put out a tremendous amount of exhaust fumes which tend to cloud upon the water before dissipating.
As whale watching increases in popularity, steps must be taken to protect these objects of our fascination. From the bays of Alaska to the San Ignacio Lagoon to the New England Coast and all across this blue planet, the whales deserve to be allowed to live their lives without interference from us, no matter how much we want to see them, hear them and touch them!
