In life, we often say, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” This is especially true in nature, where determination and a spirit to survive can lead to the most extraordinary stories. One such tale is about a familiar humpback whale named Moon.
Moon is a special whale who, for over a decade, has been observed making her annual migration from Canada to Hawaii. This 3000-mile journey is significant to her, and it is believed that Hawaii might be her birthplace. Every September, without fail, researchers would joyously spot Moon as she made her appearance to feed. To their delight, there was even a time when they discovered she had given birth to a calf.
However, life has its way of presenting challenges. In 2022, during one such migration, a drone captured images of Moon with a noticeably bent spine, akin to the letter ‘S’. The cause? Likely a harsh collision with a ship. This bent spine wasn’t a result of some natural ailment. She was injured, and severely so. Janie Wray, a dedicated researcher, expressed her shock, stating that in her entire career, she had never witnessed something of this magnitude.
Given the severity of Moon’s injury, it was expected that she would not continue her journey. The tail of a whale is instrumental in propelling them forward, and with her spine’s condition, Moon’s journey seemed impossible. Yet, the impossible happened. Moon was spotted off the Maui coast in December, having completed her arduous journey. Wray beautifully captured the essence of this determination, attributing Moon’s journey to the teachings of her ancestors – a knowledge passed down from mother to calf.
However, the completion of her migration did not signify the end of her challenges. On reaching Hawaii, Moon was in a visibly deteriorated state, emaciated and covered in whale lice. In tropical waters like Hawaii, there isn’t an abundance of food for whales. This meant that Moon had likely used up her fat reserves to make the journey and could not replenish them.
Moon’s determination, while awe-inspiring, also painted a heartbreaking picture. With her condition, researchers knew that her days were numbered. Even more heart-wrenching was the fact that intervening, even to alleviate her pain, would introduce toxins into her system that could harm other marine life.
So, what can we, as a society, do to prevent such tragic tales in the future? While accidents do happen, ships and boats can take preventive measures. As Wray advises, “We have school zones. We need whale zones.” Slowing down in areas populated by marine life can make a significant difference.
Today, as we remember Moon and her extraordinary journey, we can only hope for her well-being. But her tale serves as a reminder – to respect and protect the world we share with such magnificent creatures. Please share Moon’s story to spread awareness about the importance of being cautious in our oceans. Let’s play our part in making a difference. #dogs #cats #wildlife #HumpbackWhale #AnimalWelfare
