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How did the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale get its name?

Reddit Animals

People in North America began using the term “right whale” in the early 1700s, and originally “right” may have meant “typical,” as these whales were considered common and ordinary. However, over time, the term evolved to refer to how they were hunted—they were considered “the right whales to hunt.”

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Almost One-Third of Japanese Whale Kill Was Pregnant

Critter News

Of 679 whales reported to have been killed during the 2008-2009 whale hunt in Antarctica, 304 were female. Four of the female whales were lactating, and 192 were pregnant at the time of death. The Japanese government's "Cruise Report" gives gruesome details on the foetuses killed. Always classy.

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New Zealand, Australia to Conduct Whale Research Too

Critter News

New Zealand and Australia are joining forces to carry out research on whales using non-lethal methods, in an attempt to challenge Japan's hunting programme. Eighteen scientists will set sail for Antarctica next month to study minke, humpback and blue whale populations. Tags: australia whales new zealand Japan.

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Good News About Blue Whales

Critter News

Looks like blue whales may be coming back to Alaska. From the Associated Press: Blue whales are returning to Alaska in search of food and could be re-establishing an old migration route several decades after they were nearly wiped out by commercial whalers, scientists say. Here's hoping Sarah Palin leaves them alone.

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A couple of facts :D

Reddit Animals

" • Baluga Whales can also mimic voices, whilst on the topic of mimicry a Baluga often toyed with humans by saying "Out!" Deer, cattle, camel and goats are more closely related to dolphins and whales then they are with horses. . " Which was similar to what their leader would say for them to get out of the water.

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Bird-Eating Fish

10,000 Birds

Now and then individual catfish of various species hunt nearer the surface and larger catfish such as the American Channel Cat will take a duck or other water bird. So, the modal catfish is a fish that hunts from below, can take large prey, and occasionally eats a bird. Here is a video of some Wels Catfish foraging on Pigeons.

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The Storks of Africa

10,000 Birds

Furthermore we have another very special stork-like bird, the regal Shoebill , previously known as the Whale-headed Stork but now placed in its own family. Marabous have also learnt another trick, and that is to follow vultures and scavenge off the remains of Lion and other large predator kills.

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