Humpback Whales making a comeback

A new study released May 22, 2008 has shown that the population of Humpback whales in the pacific ocean are dramatically improving. There are now nearly 20,000 swimming in the Pacific Ocean compared to the 1,400 counted in 1966. These creatures can live up to 96 years old, outlasting the life expectancy for humans by at least 20 years.

Thankfully to prevent extinction the International Whaling Commission introduced a ban on commercial humpback whaling in 1966. Conservation programs are much to thank for these dramatically improved numbers. Although humpback whales on the coast of Asia are still fairly endangered, conservationists are very optimistic they can bounce back. The world needs to see more examples like this to prove that it is possible to make a difference.

A double edged sword has emerged from the good news of the humpback whales increased population numbers. A sort of controversy over whether or not the giant sea mammal can be removed from the endangered species list has emerged. I believe the discussion has merely started but is not actually being considered at the time.

Do you think they should be taken off the list? An increasing amount of boat collisions with the whales are also being reported, another sign that their population numbers are doing much better than before. I believe that the comeback of an endangered species like the humpback whale shows that our programs to protect species from becoming extinct do work. The question is if they were to be removed from the list, what implications it would have on their population in the decades to come?

Thoughts, Comments, Questions…

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JT (423 Posts)

Just living life in Portland, Oregon and enjoying every day that goes by. I love the environment, and I love community, and I love being able to share my experiences and perspective with the world. Follow @EnvironmentBlog

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