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Juneau Whale HEALTH (Humpbacks, Ecosystems, And Long-Term Histories) monitors the subpopulation of humpback whale that is a vital part of Juneau's marine ecosystem and tourism industry. The team consists of local scientists Dr. Heidi Pearson (University of Alaska Southeast), Dr. Shannon Atkinson (University of Alaska Fairbanks), Dr. Suzie Teerlink (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), and John Moran (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).
While the team has been working together for much longer, Juneau Whale HEALTH formalized in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic when research focused on understanding potential differences in health and behavior due to low levels of vessel traffic during 2020-2021. Since then, the study has expanded to assess humpback whale health more broadly. Juneau Whale HEALTH aims to study the unique subpopulation of humpback whales in Juneau's waters to monitor potential responses to ecosystem changes and human interactions, ensuring their survival into the future.
Meet the Team!
Dr. Heidi Pearson
University of Alaska Southeast
Project PI
Dr. Shannon Atkinson
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Co PI
Dr. Suzie Teerlink
NOAA Fisheries
Co PI
John Moran
NOAA Fisheries
Co PI
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