State of Cetaceans 2024, ORCA report in oceans worldwide
Marine Conservation Charity ORCA’s “State of the Cetaceans 2024” report provides insights into how whales and dolphins are affected by human impacts on the ocean. The report analyzes the 2023 marine surveys conducted by ORCA, revealing 55,604 whales and dolphins across oceans from the Arctic to the Antarctic.
Noteworthy findings include the increase in common dolphin sightings in the English Channel and Hebrides, along with a decline in white-beaked dolphins. These changes are likely driven by sea temperature increases and shifts in prey distribution.
The report highlights new data from the Southern Ocean survey, showing unexpected numbers of humpback whales near the Antarctic Peninsula and emerging hotspots for fin whales. CEO Sally Hamilton emphasizes the significant contributions of ORCA’s citizen scientists in uncovering crucial information about marine environments.
Key findings from 2023 surveys and ongoing research efforts demonstrate critical insights that inform global conservation strategies and the establishment of Important Marine Mammal Areas.