Social Media Unveils Surfing Bryde's Whales in Australia
New research highlights unique feeding behaviors and potential conservation areas for Bryde's whales using citizen science data.
- Bryde's whales have been observed engaging in 'shallow water surf feeding,' a newly documented behavior in Australian waters.
- Citizen scientists contributed over an hour of drone footage and 200 photos, aiding researchers in mapping whale activities.
- The study suggests parts of the Australian east coast may serve as critical areas for nursing mothers and their calves.
- Bryde's whales' movements between Australia and New Zealand remain unclear, prompting further research on their patterns.
- Findings will inform conservation efforts, including Australia's federal review of Biological Important Areas for marine protection.
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The Conversation 