Humpback Whales

The Humpback Whale consumes between 2,000 and 9,000 lbs. of fish and krill per day. The Humpback Whale is capable of living up to 95 years. They reach 35 to 48 feet long, and weigh up to 65 tons. Humpback Whales once numbered 125,000 but whaling reduced the population to 5,000 to 7,500. They sometimes become entangled in fishing nets, or suffer the effects of water pollution.

The established rules of whaling need to be better enforced. We are aware of illegal whaling going on in many parts of the world. The human population needs to know that the humpback whale is an endangered species. The uses for the whale need to be understood, so that research could replace those needs with a product other than from the whale.

In order to better enforce the existing rules, it is likely that we need heavier fines, possibly longer prison time, confiscation of fishing equipment and so forth.

Another idea would be to designate certain areas of the oceans "off-limits" to hunting and fishing for whales and other species. This could be controlled by an invisible electronic, high-tech fence. Every fishing boat must have a sensor on it that alerts the authorities they have crossed into the restricted area.

The humpback whale is a beautiful creature of the seas. The continued illegal whaling will have effects on the ecosystem of the oceans, and possibly life on Earth as we know it.

It is our duty as citizens of the world to protect all the species, in the oceans, on land, and all over the world. We must balance the resources of our world and make it a place for all generations to live in and thrive.

Charlie
New Smyrna Beach Middle School