Dr. Marc Lammers
KeOlaMagazine.com | January - February 2019
calories and nutrition they need to thrive and procreate at previous levels. In the meantime, Marc stresses the importance of being respectful and mindful of the whales that come to the islands for breeding and mating purposes, particularly mothers and calves.
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“There’s concern that as long as whale numbers are reduced, the ones who do migrate to Hawai‘i are going to receive increased attention and experience a greater negative impact from people trying to get close to them,” he says. “For more vulnerable whales, like the younger calves and their mothers, it’s important we all be respectful and mindful that it’s not the right time to put increased pressure on them. This is especially true when calf production is lower than normal.” Marc and other scientists at the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary are encouraging others to help whale mothers and calves thrive. It’s important to give them space, as too much interaction with humans can put additional stress on the whales, and jeaopardize their health and numbers further. It is vital for humans to respect the needs of these incredible creatures and give them uninterrupted time to rest and nurse their young. “It’s a matter of maintaining awareness and proper ocean etiquette,” says Marc. “We just want to remind people to be mindful of the current rules and regulations, and give the whales their space. The more science understands how the whales are being affected, the better we will be at protecting them and helping them thrive.” ■ Photos courtesy of NOAA’s Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program For more information: hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov