Research Updates
To receive a full version of the Research Update, a minimum annual donation of $50 is required.
Year In Review: Key Accomplishments & Statistics
Overview of Our Research Focus & Results
During our study period, we have continued to focus our research on identifying individual humpback whales by both tail fluke and body pattern identification.We documented humpback whale behavior from both above and below the water surface, determining the sex and social roles of individual whales.
We compiled re-sighting histories of known individuals, determined calving intervals of known females, collected sloughed skin samples for genetic analysis to obtain DNA fingerprints, and recorded the distribution of mothers and calves.
Eager to learn more about our findings?
Then donate $50 or more to receive our full-color detailed Annual Research Summary.
By The Numbers
During the our annual study, we obtained over 20,000 still images and 32 hours of digital video to document the whales and their behavior.We also collected sloughed skin samples for genetic analysis.
Continued Support of Central Fluke Identification Repository
Scientists from the Center continued to support the National Marine Mammal Laboratory's central fluke identification repository at NOAA's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's) headquarters in Seattle, WA. Using the Center's collection of fluke photographs of mothers and calves, the working group has continued the organization and analysis of each research team's photo set with the Center's. The goal of the working group is to begin to understand the rate of survivorship of the endangered humpback's calves. A report has followed and a scientific paper has been published.
On-the-Water Ambassadors & Stewards
While out on the water, we have daily "on water" consultations (conversations) with numerous whale-watch tour boats on the Maui waters, impacting over 100,000 visitors annually. These recurring on-the-job conversations enables us to act as stewards. We have the unique opportunity to reinforce the message of awareness, education, and ultimately, preservation for this endangered species with the tour boat pilots and their groups.