In a revolutionary step for marine biology, researchers are now using drones to perform health check-ups on wild whales. By flying specially equipped drones through the misty “blow” exhaled by whales, scientists can collect vital biological samples without ever touching or stressing the animals.
This non-invasive technique has led to a critical discovery in the Arctic. For the first time, researchers have confirmed the presence of cetacean morbillivirus—a highly contagious and often deadly pathogen—in whales above the Arctic Circle. This virus is known to cause devastating outbreaks, leading to mass strandings and deaths among dolphins, whales, and porpoises worldwide. Its ability to jump between species and cross oceans makes it a significant threat to marine mammal populations.
The process involves drones fitted with sterile petri dishes that sweep through the whale’s exhaled breath condensate. This “blow” contains cells, microbes, and viruses. Combined with traditional skin biopsies taken from boats, this method paints a comprehensive picture of whale health.
