Gray Whales and Their Migration Challenges

What is the primary reason for the unusual mortality event among gray whales?

• Increased vessel strikes

• Decreased food supply

• Higher birth rates

• More predators

How does low sea ice historically affect gray whale birth rates?

• It decreases birth rates

• It has no effect

• It increases birth rates

• It causes more strandings

What is the main food source for gray whales in the Arctic?

• Plankton

• Small fish

• Krill

• Amphipods

Why are amphipods crucial for gray whales?

• They live in the water column

• They are easy to catch

• They have high fat content

• They are abundant year-round

What change in the Arctic ecosystem has affected the amphipods' size?

• Decreased sea ice

• Increased sea ice

• More predators

• Less algae

What unique behavior is observed in the Pacific Coast Feeding Group of gray whales?

• Performing headstands

• Feeding in deep waters

• Migrating to the Arctic

• Hunting in groups

Why might the Pacific Coast Feeding Group of gray whales be smaller in size?

• Genetic differences

• Lack of food

• Increased competition

• Adaptation to habitat

What is the Makah Nation's perspective on whaling?

• It is a new tradition

• It is a recreational activity

• It is a cultural and spiritual practice

• It is purely for subsistence

How have changes in sea ice affected the Makah Nation's whaling rights?

• They have been expanded

• They have been revoked

• They have been delayed

• They have been reinstated

What broader message do gray whales convey about the Arctic ecosystem?

• It is isolated from global impacts

• It is stable and unchanging

• It is unaffected by climate change

• It is a warning of imbalance