Humans The Sea Evolution of Whales Whaling Humans

Humans & The Sea

Evolution of Whales

Whaling • Humans have been sailing the seas since civilization began • Whaling was recorded in 5000 B. C. and in Norway at least 4000 years ago! • Whale oil was used to make margarine & cooking oil • Sperm Whale oil was used for: illuminating lamps, industrial lubricant and as a component in soap, cosmetics & perfumes

Picture Time!

International Whaling Commission • IWC formed in 1946 – Purpose was to conserve the whale stocks that were being depleted by commercial whaling • USA became a member in 1948 and is still a very active member • Did you know: – The US had the largest whaling fleet in the nineteenth century (1800’s)? – When oil was discovered, the need for whale oil declined

IWC, cont’d • 1982 Whaling Moratorium – What’s a moratorium? • A legally authorized pause or delay of an action – Still in place today • Between 1990 & 1993, it was proposed to the IWC to lift the moratorium • In 1993 the USA refused and stated they would impose sanctions against any country that continued to whale without IWC permission

Endangered/depleted Cetaceans • Species included: – Dolphins: • Baiji, irawaddy, bottlenose – Porpoises • Vaquita – Whales: • Blue, humpback, fin, northern right, narwhal, bowhead

Right Whale Minke Whale Baiji Vaquita Stranded Fin Whale

Size of the Blue Whale

Whaling Photos