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Whales: Identifying Tails

In Whales: Identifying Tails, surfer Ted Cheeseman talks about his photo identification service, Happy Whale. Whales' tails show their life story, from bitemarks, barnacles, and scars. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Natural World: Humpback Whales — A Detective Story, a documentary about our relationship with whales and their future alongside us.

Video Details
Location:
California
Grades:
3-56-8
Program:
Natural World: Humpback Whales — A Detective Story
Time:
1:55
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Life Science

Lesson Express

Q: Why do you think humpback whale tails are so fascinating?
A: Each tail, or fluke, is unique. The shape, size, and markings on the tail help scientists identify individual whales, track their movements, and understand their behaviors.

Q: What are some things that can be discovered by looking at pictures of whale tails?
A: By examining pictures of whale tails, scientists can identify individual whales and track their migration patterns. The unique features on each tail, such as scars, markings, and the shape of the fluke, provide information about the whale's life.

Q: How does identifying whales by their tails help scientists understand their behavior and migration patterns?
A: It allows scientists to track individual whales over time, helping them understand long-term behaviors like migration routes and feeding habits. This information is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies to protect whales and their habitats.

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