The study found that almost 7,000 North Pacific humpbacks went missing between 2012 and 2021 — a 20% population drop-off like due to the record-setting marine heatwave known as “the blob.”
Wildlife
Study tracks calls used by endangered Alaska belugas — and human-made noise in their habitat
The animals contend with sustained noise from commercial shipping, raising questions about future regulation.
Cruise ship passenger fee proposals include study of Juneau’s humpback whales
Juneau’s humpback whales are beloved by visitors and locals alike. But scientists say there’s a lot we don’t know about their health.
Unalaska woman breaks the internet with eagles TikTok video
Many viewers had no idea Unalaska existed until they saw Whittern’s post. One skeptic didn’t think the video was filmed in Alaska at all.
Alaska’s Arctic and boreal ecosystems see climate change-driven ‘microbial awakening’
Underground fungi and bacteria are becoming more active as permafrost thaws in northern regions.
Tusk of female woolly mammoth ties extinct creatures to ancient Alaska hunting camps
Isotope analysis that enabled reconstruction of mammoths’ movements through Interior Alaska provides lessons for modern animals, including caribou.
Anchorage’s white raven has become a local legend
Since October of last year, Anchorage has been visited by a rare, feathered celebrity — a white raven, which appears to have taken up residence in the Spenard neighborhood.
Petersburg Christmas Bird Count records highest number of birds in recent memory
The group also spotted an exceptional number of species.
Scientists and townspeople rescued 2 orcas trapped in a Southeast Alaska lake
The killer whales were in danger of starving, and they couldn’t get out on their own. It took a team of scientists and nearly half of Coffman Cove to save them.
Avian influenza death of Alaska polar bear is a global first and a sign of the virus’ persistence
The highly pathogenic influenza that has already killed vast numbers of birds and numerous mammals continues to circulate in the world’s wild populations.