Dear MEL Topic Readers,
'Real and imminent' extinction risk to whales
Whales, dolphins, and porpoises are collectively known as cetaceans, and they are divided into two groups, baleen whales and toothed whales. Baleen whales, or simply whales, have baleen plates that are used to filter their food, such as plankton and small fish. Toothed whales, dolphins and porpoises, have teeth and eat larger prey like fish and marine mammals. Though it has been known that many species of these intelligent, social, and inspiring creatures are in danger of extinction because of human activities, little has been done to protect them. It is estimated that 300,000 whales, dolphins, and porpoises are being killed annually. The biggest threat is accidental captures in fishing equipment and nets, called bycatch. So, hundreds of scientists and conservationists from 40 countries signed a letter to call for global action to protect them from extinction. It aims to raise awareness of the problem to regulators, scientists, politicians, and the public.
Even though how much this coordinated letter by itself moves governments and politicians may not be so significant, it could trigger other movements and actions in other communities.
Enjoy reading the article and imagine the seas where only small fish and plastic waste are seen.
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