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AI Safeguards Whales Migrating North
9 Apr
Summary
- Humpback whale numbers exceed 50,000 on Australia's east coast.
- Artificial intelligence is being used to prevent deadly boat strikes.
- Whale migration is showing signs of an earlier or less predictable start.
Humpback whales, having made a significant comeback from near extinction, have begun their annual northern migration, with early sightings off Sydney. Marine scientists report that the population on Australia's east coast now surpasses 50,000, a substantial increase from the mere 300-500 individuals present in the 1960s.
To address the persistent threat of boat strikes, a leading cause of direct harm to these marine mammals, maritime operations are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence. This technology aims to enhance safety as the whales undertake their journey north.
This year's migration has also shown signs of altering its typical schedule. There is emerging evidence that the humpback whales' journey may be starting earlier than usual or is becoming less predictable, a development that scientists are closely monitoring.
