Humpback whales have recovered significantly from whaling but face ongoing welfare threats from entanglement, ship strikes, and noise pollution.
Entanglement in crab and lobster gear causes prolonged suffering over weeks or months as whales drag gear, losing condition. Ship strikes cause traumatic injuries; many whales survive in compromised condition for extended periods. Noise pollution disrupts mother-calf communication and foraging. Whales that survive entanglement often show permanent scarring and behavioral changes.