Bowhead whale recovery reflects century-old whaling patterns
Bowhead whale populations are recovering primarily in areas where hazardous sea ice historically limited whaling access, according to a University of Adelaide-led study. Researchers analyzed 18th-century whaling logbooks to trace how past hunting patterns continue to influence current recovery trends. Populations in Alaska and West Greenland are rebounding, while those in East Greenland and the Sea of Okhotsk remain depleted. The findings highlight the lasting impact of historical exploitation on present-day conservation outcomes.
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April 28, 2026 Bowhead whale recovery reflects century-old whaling patterns by University of Adelaide edited by Lisa Lock, reviewed by Robert Egan Lisa Lock scientific editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Robert Egan associate editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Editors' notes This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked peer-reviewed publication trusted source proofread The GIST Add as preferred source Bowhead whales off the coast of Greenland.
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