Study: Blue whales return to Indian Ocean region decades after being wiped out due to whaling

In a notable victory for conservation endeavors, a recent study has unveiled the return of blue whales to a region near Seychelles in the Indian Ocean, where these magnificent creatures had once faced decimation due to whaling. The findings, documented in the journal Endangered Species Research, are based on a year’s worth of underwater audio recordings, revealing that blue whales now spend extended periods in this area.

 

The research, conducted between 2020 and 2021, involved a collaboration between researchers and filmmakers who captured footage featured in the documentary film “Return of the Giants.” Blue whales, recognized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as the largest animals on Earth, populate all oceans except the Arctic. However, their numbers drastically declined in the 1900s due to extensive commercial whaling, leading to their classification as an endangered species by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.

 

Historically, Seychelles served as an “opportunistic whaling ground” in the 1960s, attracting Soviet whalers who unlawfully killed up to 500 blue whales. The recent study, led by researchers and filmmakers during a month-long expedition, employed hydrophones and a “sound trap” fitted near the seabed to record the sounds of blue whales, providing valuable insights.

 

The research indicates that Seychelles may function as a breeding ground, with the distinct low-frequency song of male blue whales recorded during March and April—signifying the breeding season. Dr. Kate Stafford, a lead researcher, suggested that Seychelles might serve as a crucial area for blue whales due to its limited ship traffic, offering a quiet and safe environment.

 

As part of a “debt for nature” exchange, Seychelles has officially protected around 400,000 square kilometers around the island, leading to the forgiveness of approximately $22 million in national debt. The study emphasizes the importance of such protected areas, highlighting the significance of ongoing conservation efforts to ensure the well-being of these endangered marine giants.