Page 2 of 4 Cetacealab sits at the convergence of numerous
waterways, making it an ideal habitat for a wide diversity of
species. Approximately 252 humpbacks return each year to feed in
the nutrient-rich waters of Caamano Sound after their long
migration from Hawaii or Baja California, orcas pass through as
they follow the salmon south and recently fin whales have
returned to the area they had long ago abandoned. As for the
true essence of the research conducted at the station, it can be
summed up in a word: acoustics. For this reason, the researchers
have developed a network of hydrophone stations in strategic
locations, covering an underwater area of 25 square kilometres.
Each hydrophone has been placed 18 to 24 metres underwater,
connected via cable to a land-based transmitter. The radio
transmitter broadcasts all whale vocalizations back to the lab,
which are monitored continuously in the lab, all year round.
And, as for the proposal to allow super tankers to chug through
these pristine waters? The resear