Whale ‘supergroups’ show numbers are rebounding from hunting. But Iran war holds dangers for them
Summary
A South African couple saw a rare gathering of nearly 300 humpback whales, called a "supergroup," off the coast of South Africa. This large group shows that humpback whale numbers are rebounding after international whaling bans since 1986, though new dangers, such as conflicts involving Iran, could threaten them.Key Facts
- Nearly 300 humpback whales formed a "supergroup" seen off South Africa in December 2026.
- The whales were counted by photographing their tails, as each whale's tail pattern is unique.
- This is possibly the largest group of humpback whales ever recorded.
- Humpback whale numbers in the southern hemisphere have grown from fewer than 10,000 during heavy whaling to over 100,000 today.
- The International Whaling Commission monitors whale populations and enforces the whaling ban that started in 1986.
- Humpbacks usually travel alone or in small groups but form supergroups in areas with lots of food like small fish and krill.
- Whale sightings are increasing in many parts of the Southern Hemisphere.
- Experts warn that conflicts like the war involving Iran could bring new threats to whales in the region.
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