How might scientists track humpback whales if they couldn't follow their songs
Since we generally know their routes, how about sonar?
They can tag them with a small radio transmitter and track their position with a satellite.
See
http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/20/a-whale-a-tag-a-mission/
If scientists are unable to track humpback whales by following their songs, there are several alternative methods they can use to study and track these magnificent creatures. Here are a few techniques scientists employ to monitor humpback whales:
1. Satellite Tracking: Scientists attach satellite tags or transmitters to individual whales, which can then transmit data such as location, dive behavior, and migration patterns. These tags are usually attached using suction cups and fall off after a certain period of time or can sometimes be remotely released. The gathered information helps researchers understand the whales' movement patterns and behavior.
2. Visual Observation: Scientists and trained observers regularly conduct visual surveys from boats, high vantage points like cliffs, or aircraft to identify and track humpback whales in their natural habitat. They record the whales' behaviors, group size, and approximate location to collect valuable data.
3. Photo-Identification: Researchers take photographs of the unique markings (such as the shape and coloration of the tail flukes) on the dorsal side of humpback whales' tails. These markings are distinct for each individual, similar to human fingerprints. By comparing these images and patterns, scientists can track the movement, migration, and population dynamics of humpback whales.
4. Acoustic Monitoring: Apart from tracking whale songs, scientists can analyze and study other sounds produced by humpback whales, such as social calls, feeding sounds, or breaching noises. Hydrophones, which are underwater microphones, are deployed at different locations to record these sounds, allowing scientists to understand humpback whale communication and behavior.
5. Genetic Sampling: Scientists can collect skin or blubber samples from humpback whales using specialized darts or biopsy tools. These samples provide valuable genetic information, helping researchers estimate population sizes, understand genetic diversity, and study humpback whale populations.
In summary, if scientists cannot rely on tracking humpback whales by following their songs, they can use satellite tracking, visual observation, photo-identification, acoustic monitoring, and genetic sampling to study and track these magnificent creatures.