Researchers use drones with suction cups to tag whales, allowing them to study the species from the sky

Marine mammal researchers in Hawaii have taken a giant leap forward by using drones to tag humpback whales without disturbing them. This innovative method allows them to gather crucial data from the whales' backs using suction cup tags connected to advanced cameras and sensors. They’ve even managed to tag a shy singing male whale, which was previously impossible with traditional methods. This breakthrough not only enhances our understanding of humpback whales but also opens doors for low-impact research on other marine species.