Dive In: The Blue Whale Project

Vision

The majestic blue whale is the largest animal to have existed, sitting at the top of the ocean’s food pyramid. Growing to be more than 100 feet long and weighing as much as 200 tons, the blue whale plays a critical role in maintaining our oceans.

Despite its size and significance, the blue whale is an endangered species. Reducing the threat to this extraordinary marine mammal requires research and public education to help guide better policy and practice.

That’s why, when a deceased blue whale washed up on the shores of Liverpool, Nova Scotia in 2017, two Dalhousie professors seized the opportunity to turn this tragic loss into a meaningful and educational experience for students, and the community.

The bones of the blue whale were prepared and preserved by Dalhousie students and faculty, scanned for a 3D model, and then prepped to be mounted in the atrium of Dal’s Steele Ocean Sciences Building. When the Beaty Centre for Marine Biodiversity opens to the public in 2025, Dal will join the ranks of the Royal Ontario Museum and the Natural History Museum in London in displaying blue whale skeletons as an educational tool and a poignant reminder of the care we must take to protect our oceans.

Dive In: The Blue Whale Project continues to raise funds to help support the time and resources needed to bring this project to life. Your donation will attach your name or the name of the loved one to the project, becoming part of this important community exhibit.

A number of bones are still available! Make your mark today!

For more information about donating, please contact Elizabeth Benoit at elizabeth.benoit@dal.ca.