International Whaling Commission

A South African couple observed a humpback whale supergroup of 299 individuals, indicating a rebound in whale numbers since the 1986 international hunting ban. Scientists attribute increasing humpback populations in the Southern Hemisphere to recovery from whaling, with counts rising from under 10,000 to over 100,000.

A humpback whale 'supergroup' of nearly 300 whales was observed off South Africa, indicating population recovery since the 1986 international whaling ban. Scientists attribute the resurgence to conservation efforts, though the Iran war poses new threats to whales.

A South African couple observed a record 299 humpback whales in a 'supergroup,' indicating a rebound in their numbers since the 1986 international whale hunting ban. Scientists attribute the recovery to the moratorium, with southern hemisphere humpback populations rising from under 10,000 to over 100,000.

A South African couple observed a humpback whale supergroup of 299 whales, indicating rebounding populations since the 1986 international whaling ban. Scientists attribute the recovery to conservation efforts, though humpback numbers in other regions remain mixed.

A humpback whale 'supergroup' of nearly 300 individuals was sighted off South Africa's coast, indicating a rebound in their population since the 1986 international hunting ban. Scientists attribute this recovery to conservation efforts, though potential threats from the Iran war are noted.

Humpback whale sightings off Rio de Janeiro's coast have surged as their population recovers from commercial whaling, boosting demand for whale-watching trips. The species' population has grown from 2,000 to 35,000 in 40 years, with a 1982 international whaling ban credited for their recovery. Scientific expeditions and tourism initiatives, including trips led by biologists, now highlight conservation efforts and the whales' migration patterns.

The Iran war is having an impact on whales near South Africa, increasing their exposure to ship strikes and traffic. Whales are vulnerable to these threats, which can cause them harm or even death. The situation is a concern for conservation efforts.