SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
Ongoing Projects
Killer Whale Diets: Tracking Adaptation and Pollution Risks
We study what killer whales eat and how flexible their diets are. This helps us understand how they are exposed to pollutants and how well they can adapt to a rapidly changing ocean. By combining long-term observations with cutting-edge tissue analysis, we reveal the hidden connections between diet, health, and survival in Norway’s killer whales.
Population Size, Structure, and Dynamics
We track the number of killer whales, their births, deaths, and how the population changes over time, including its structure. We investigate the causes of mortality and use this information to forecast the population’s future, helping guide conservation strategies, identify emerging threats, and ensure the long-term protection of Norway’s killer whales.
Contaminants and Killer Whale
Health
We monitor contaminants in Norwegian killer whales, including what types are present, how much they carry, and where the pollution comes from. We study how these substances build up or are broken down in the whales’ bodies, and how they affect their health. This information helps us understand risks to the whales and supports efforts to protect them.
Acoustic Insights into Killer Whale Society
We systematically record the sounds of Norwegian killer whales to understand their unique vocal patterns. By linking these recordings with group identity, family relationships, and similarities in communication, we can uncover how whales interact and maintain social bonds. This research helps reveal the complexity of their social lives and the role of communication in their survival and behavior.
How Killer Whales Learn and Bond
We study the social lives of Norwegian killer whales, observing how they interact, form bonds, and learn from one another. By examining family groups, friendships, and patterns of cooperation, we can understand how knowledge and behaviors are passed through generations. This research reveals the complexity of whale societies and how social learning shapes their survival and daily lives.
Monitoring Ocean Health Through Strandings
Through our stranding program, we collect samples from dead stranded marine mammals along Norway’s coast. Studying these carcasses helps us monitor the health of individual animals and their ecosystem. By analyzing contaminants, we gain crucial insights into emerging threats and state of marine habitats, supporting conservation efforts.
MULTIWHALE
The MULTIWHALE project investigates how multiple stressors—such as pollution, changes in prey availability, and environmental shifts—interact to affect the health and population dynamics of Norwegian killer whales. By combining long-term field observations with advanced analyses, the project aims to understand the risks these iconic predators face. MULTIWHALE is conducted in collaboration with, and hosted by, the University of Oslo (UiO).
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Norway’s Killer Whale Watch
Our national-scale citizen science project engages a network of dedicated volunteers across Norway to monitor killer whales. By contributing sightings, photographs, and observations, citizens help build an extensive database. This collaborative approach strengthens connections between science and the public, turning curiosity and passion into meaningful contributions to marine conservation.
New Project Coming Up in 2026!
More soon!