Scientists use innovative technology to track northwest migrations in the late spring and early summer and southeast migrations in the winter. Migrations appear to be driven by water temperature.
Scientific team will continue conducting its photo-identification project this year using an uncrewed aerial system to estimate abundance and trends for this endangered whale population.
This is part of a larger effort by NOAA Fisheries to modernize its survey enterprise, which will lead to greater efficiency, flexibility, and cost effectiveness.
Scientists and fishermen collaborated across international borders to identify the most effective management approaches for this highly mobile, highly valuable commercial species.
