Many species of whale were almost hunted to extinction for their oil. We usually stop the killing when it is no longer lucrative. Much of the time, the fate of entire societies of creatures lays in the hands of profit, and what can make the most money. Even then, we undervalue natureʼs economic value. It is time we put more value on preserving ecosystems and their inhabitants, as a means of safeguarding our future. When we got in the water with the common dolphins we were surprised to see a fin whale amongst them. Two very different species interacting. Fin whales, the second largest animal that has ever lived, is still being hunted in some parts of the world. Despite their enormous size, they get much less attention than the blue whale.
Karim was published in National Geographic magazine for his humpback whale photography. He now leads his own trips so that others can swim with whales.
If you are interested in swimming with or photographing humpback whales, Karim guides people in small trips betweenAugust and October every year in Tonga. Visitwww.dancewithwhales.com to find out more
To see more of Karim’s work, visit his website at www.karimphotography.com
