According to a study by the University of Queensland, humpback whales migrating along the east and west coasts of Australia were found to be healthier and less stressed during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The reduced stress levels were attributed to decreased human activity, underwater noise, contaminants, and pollutants during the pandemic.
The study used drone images, blubber samples, and genetic analysis to assess the whales' physical condition, energy reserves, and stress hormone (cortisol) levels.
The analysis revealed significantly lower cortisol concentrations in 2021 compared to 2020, indicating reduced environmental stress for the whales.
Sources: ABC, Knowridge, Earth, Vista al Mar, El Imparcial, Huaral, RPP, El Heraldo, 24 Horas, Revista Summa, Montevideo Portal, WION, La Tribuna, Phys.org, Milenio, El Universo, El Nacional, XEU, La Sexta
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.