Summary:
– The recent May aerial survey of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument provided valuable data on species utilization.
– The challenging weather conditions during spring make aerial surveys in the area rare.
– The researchers observed a diverse range of whale species, including humpback whales, fin whales, sperm whales, Cuvier’s beaked whales, and common dolphins.
– Two critically endangered North Atlantic right whales were spotted near the monument boundaries.
Welcome to our blog post, inviting you to join us on an exciting journey to the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. In our recent May aerial survey, our researchers uncovered a treasure trove of fascinating species and surprising discoveries. Buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
The Challenge of Spring Surveys:
Conducting aerial surveys in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument during spring is no easy feat. The unpredictable weather conditions pose significant challenges, making these flights rare. Yet, the invaluable insights gained from these surveys make them well worth the effort.
Whaling Tales: A Marine Marvel:
As our researchers took to the skies, they were greeted by an incredible spectacle of marine life. Whales and dolphins seemed to join us from all corners of the plane, showcasing the majesty of these magnificent creatures.
Humpback whales mesmerized our team with their impressive acrobatic displays and haunting songs. These gentle giants captivate the imagination and remind us of the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Fin whales, the second-largest animals on Earth, showcased their elegant and streamlined bodies as they glided gracefully through the ocean. Their distinct V-shaped spouts towered above the water’s surface as if to announce their majestic presence.
The presence of sperm whales added an air of mystique to our aerial survey. These deep-sea divers are renowned for their impressive ability to plunge to great depths in search of their favorite food: colossal squid. Their unique-shaped head, often mistaken for an island, is a testament to their grandeur.
Delightfully bewildering, Cuvier’s beaked whales surprised our researchers with their elusive nature. These enigmatic creatures, known for their extraordinary diving abilities, disappeared beneath the waves, leaving us in awe of their mysterious ways.
Our avian friends also graced us with their presence. The sky was adorned with the playful maneuvers of common dolphins, their sleek bodies effortlessly gliding through the air with remarkable agility. Their joyful acrobatics brought smiles to our faces, reminding us of the sheer joy and harmony of the natural world.
In the quest for endangered species, we struck gold! Our team spotted two critically endangered North Atlantic right whales approximately five miles west of the monument boundaries. These majestic beings are a testament to the need for conservation efforts and remind us of the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
The Value of Data:
Beyond the awe-inspiring sights and heartwarming encounters, these aerial surveys serve a much larger purpose. The data collected during these flights provide invaluable insights into species utilization within the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument. Understanding how and when different species interact with the Monument allows us to better protect and conserve these fragile ecosystems.
The Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument always amaze us with its abundant and diverse marine life. The recent May aerial survey provided a rare glimpse into the splendor of this underwater world. From the grace of humpback and fin whales to the mystique of sperm and Cuvier’s beaked whales and the playful presence of common dolphins, this flight was an experience like no other.
We were blessed to witness the presence of not just one but two critically endangered North Atlantic right whales near the monument’s Monuments. These sightings are a powerful reminder of the need for continued conservation efforts to protect these incredible creatures.
As we delve deeper into understanding the utilization patterns of species within the monument, we are ahead in our mission to safeguard these pristine ecosystems for generations to come. Join us on this remarkable journey, and together, let’s celebrate the wonders of our natural world.
(Note: All right whale photos were taken under NOAA research permit.)
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Source Description
Last month, we conducted our first-ever May aerial survey of the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument! 🛩️
This flight was only our third spring Monument flight in seven years, two of which happened this year! Spring can be particularly challenging to fly due to weather. Still, these flights will provide valuable data to help us understand how and when species utilize the Monument.
SMonumentid we see? An abundance of whale species! Our researchers were surrounded by whales and dolphins from all sides of the plane, including humpback whales, fin whales, sperm whales, Cuvier’s beaked whales, and common dolphins. In addition, roughly five miles west of the monument boundaries, the team saw two critically endangered North Atlantic right whales.
Read more about the Monument sights from our second spring aerial survey this year at the News & Stories link in our bio.
Right whale photos taken under NOAA research permit
