Whale numbers in the Southern Ocean, Antarctica, have been tracked by scientists and WWF Australia.

The tallying, as well as the whales’ habits, are being observed through non-invasive tags with suction cups to the huge mammals, according to WWF Australia.

The foundation said in a statement: “WWF is collaborating with Dr Ari Friedlaender – a whale ecologist and National Geographic explorer who has worked in the Antarctic for over 15 years, studying ocean giants who visit and call the Southern Ocean their home.”

“As climate change and krill fishing increase in the Antarctic, the pressure to learn more about these majestic animals becomes more urgent.”