Marine

Wild Sei Whale Recovery and Ocean Warming Welfare

Sei whales were severely depleted by whaling and are now recovering. Climate-driven changes to prey distribution create new welfare challenges for recovering populations.

Key Facts

Sei whales were the third species targeted in the whaling industry's sequential depletion
UK waters sei whale sightings are rare but increasing
They are highly specialised feeders on copepods - among the smallest zooplankton
Climate warming is shifting copepod distributions affecting sei whale foraging welfare

Welfare Considerations

Sei whale welfare recovery depends on continued whaling moratorium, ocean warming mitigation, and reduction of vessel noise and strike risk. Climate-driven prey shifts represent an emerging welfare challenge that is difficult to address directly.

What You Can Do

Support International Whaling Commission moratorium on commercial whaling
Follow WDC updates on sei whale recovery and distribution changes
Advocate for climate policies that protect marine ecosystem stability