Blue and fin whales begin reappearing in the southeast Atlantic after decades of decline
A new study shows that blue and fin whales are slowly returning to parts of their historic range off Namibia and South Africa, with most sightings recorded since 2012.
An analysis of more than six decades of whale records from the waters off Namibia and South Africa's west coast reveals a clear upward trend in sightings of blue and fin whales, with 95 % of observations occurring after 2012. The research, appearing in the African Journal of Marine Science, was coordinated by Dr Bridget James of the University of Cape Town and Dr Simon Elwen of Stellenbosch University. Twelve confirmed blue whale sightings and 76 fin whale sightings were documented, alongside several strandings.
Although both species are still classified as threatened by the IUCN, fin whales have recovered to over 30 % of their pre-whaling numbers while blue whales remain at roughly 3 % of historic levels. The scientists caution that better vessel monitoring may partly explain the increase and stress that continued protection and systematic observation are essential for full recovery.
Why it matters
The resurgence signals that long-term conservation can help restore species once driven near extinction.
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