Animals
Our research data is used to influence public policy and mobilize community members in support of marine mammal conservation, specifically whales and dolphins.
What We Study
As impacts of the 5 Major Threats identified by our research are often poorly understood, we conduct rigorous studies that:
1
Identify cetaceans present in important marine ecoregions and assess population trends
2
Identify and quantify the extent of major threats endangering these populations
3
Guide science-based mitigation measures through enhanced management and/or policy
4
Continue population monitoring and individual health assessments for impacted species
PWF 2023 Research Report
Read a summary of our research activities in 2023, including a recap of recently published work and preliminary results from our latest projects.
Publications & References
Since 1980, PWF researchers have published over 100 peer-reviewed publications, reports and books influencing the advancement of our collective knowledge and management of whales and dolphins.
applied Research methods
Long-term
(40+ years) population monitoring
Short-term
(3-5 years) projects to measure the impact of specific stressors and identify management outcomes
Community science
(Ongoing) campaigns that enlist the public in our dedicated research effortsTechnical Innovations
Breaking new ground in marine mammal research, Pacific Whale Foundation in collaboration with the Marine Mammal Research Program, were able to complete the first-ever deployment of a Customized Animal Tracking Solutions (www.cats.is; CATS) suction-cup video tag on an individual female false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) from the endangered main Hawaiian Islands Population. The tag remained on the animal for >12 hours and is a significant step forward in understanding more about the energetic dynamics and foraging strategies of false killer whales, and part of a long-term project on false killer whales in Hawaiʻi.
research opportunities
Volunteering
If you reside in Hawai‘i; Hervey Bay, Australia; and/or Puerto Lopez, Ecuador, and are interested in volunteering with us, please email the research team to inquire about opportunities.
Grad students
Graduate students currently enrolled in a marine program interested in partnering with PWF researchers to analyze/collect data can contact us to discuss potential opportunities.
Careers
Love the ocean and its rich wildlife? Want to have a job in which you can make a difference? Visit our careers webpages for Hawaiʻi and Australia to explore available paid positions that may be of interest.
