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Project Summary
My Drones in Whale Research lesson plan, successfully implemented at a science museum and classroom setting, teaches the innovative application of drones to photograph marine mammals and collect respiratory microbiome samples. Children create their own whale microbiomes using craft supplies that represent bacteria. The lesson translates current research data and methods in a way that is accessible, engaging and fun.
Whales play an important role in ocean ecosystems with the ability to store CO2 for decades and provide mineral-rich waste to phytoplankton. In 1986, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) ended a century-long period of commercial whaling. Today, climate change, pollution and
are listed as endangered.
overfishing threaten whale populations, many of which
Scientific findings on whale health, behavior and their environments can be used to combat population declines. Collecting and analyzing exhaled whale breath samples is used for the detection of pregnancy and stress hormones, as well as microbiological information and sex identification.
The traditional method of capturing breath samples on petri dishes held directly above the blowhole, often on poles, is dangerous for both the researchers and whales. Thus, noninvasive, cost-effective methods for measuring whales' health is imperative. In 2014, Dr. Iain Kerr at the Ocean Alliance launched the SnotBot program with the goal of using drones to collect whale breath samples in the wild. Collecting data remotely with drones is efficient as it allows for the research boat with the pilot to keep a far distance from the whales. When equipped with cameras, drones are also useful in photogrammetric studies and photo identification. For example, measuring a whales’ length and weight, which can be done using aerial images, help scientists determine if a whale is getting enough food.
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