Origins of Blue Whales Continued 

    Many whales are endangered, largely due to past hunting. Years ago, people used the oil from the blubber of whales for all sorts of items, including oil burned in lamps and ingredients for manufacturing lipstick. They also used whale meat to eat or make pet food, sinews for tennis racquet strings, and even used baleen as stays or supports in ladies underwear. A waxy substance called ambergris, which is from a sperm whale's digestive system, was used in making perfume. Ambergris was very valuable, and a large lump found by a beachgoer was worth a fortune.

     Since 1986, there has been a temporary ban or moratorium on hunting the large whales for commercial uses. However, some countries still kill whales for "scientific" purposes and others have illegally resumed commercial whaling. This is controversial, because the products from these whales are still used commercially. Many scientists question whether the whales really need to be killed to learn the sorts of things being studied.

     In the recent past, popular movements helped to save the whales from hunting. Unfortunately, the whales are not completely safe. We need to understand and solve some of the problems currently threatening whales. Let others know about the issues and write to lawmakers. Also, if you ever have the chance, try to see live whales in their wild ocean homes.

You will never forget it.