Worth the Hard Work: Humpback Whale No Longer “Threatened”

Australian authorities have decided to remove the humpback whale from the threatened species list following some six decades of protection, a testament to the efficiency of conservation efforts towards the impressive marine mammal.

“Our removal of the humpback from the threatened species list is based on science and sends a clear signal about what can be achieved through coordinated action,” says Australian environment minister Sussan Ley. “It is a message of hope for the welfare of a number of species.” 

Commercial whaling brought the species to the brink of extinction, but since whaling operations stopped in 1963, concerted efforts were made to protect humpback whales, and the population has since gone from just 1,500 to an estimated 40,000. Sustained conservation efforts are needed, and to that effect, the Australian government is investing in a long-term monitoring program.