Israel - May 14, 2024

The remarkable journey of a young whale traversing the Mediterranean Sea has shed light on the myriad threats confronting oceanic creatures, according to researchers.

Conducted by scientists from Greenpeace, alongside experts from the universities of Exeter and Haifa, the study focused on whales and dolphins in the Eastern Mediterranean, off the coast of Israel.

Encounters with Cuvier’s beaked whales, bottlenose dolphins, and sperm whales, including a young adult male previously spotted off southern France, underscored the diversity of marine life in the region.

Of particular significance was the unprecedented movement of a sperm whale, marking the furthest recorded journey within the Mediterranean. The perilous voyage undertaken by the whale highlights the hazards posed by human activities in the area.

Audio analysis revealed that the vocalizations of whales off the Israeli coast matched the "Mediterranean dialect," indicating their integration into the wider regional population.

Dr. Kirsten Thompson, from the Greenpeace Research Laboratories at the University of Exeter, emphasized the urgent need for targeted protection measures at key locations.

"The Mediterranean poses numerous threats to marine life, from fishing and pollution to noise and boat strikes," noted Dr. Thompson.

The study's findings underscore the critical importance of safeguarding vulnerable species in the face of increasing industrial activities. With plans for oil and gas exploration and the construction of new infrastructure in the region, the Mediterranean's rich biodiversity faces unprecedented challenges.

Dr. Thompson highlighted the potential for technological solutions, such as installing listening devices in narrow straits to create an alert system and mitigate the risk of ship strikes.

The study, funded by Greenpeace International, represents a vital step towards understanding and protecting marine life in the Eastern Mediterranean. As threats to oceanic ecosystems intensify, concerted efforts are needed to ensure the survival of these majestic creatures for generations to come.