Humpback whale deaths are largely caused by collisions with boats and entanglement in fishing nets. New research reveals their poor eyesight, with softball-sized eyes providing blurry vision, hindering their ability to detect fishing gear until it's too late. Simulations show they perceive surroundings as silhouettes, lacking the visual acuity to see fine details like nets from a distance. This discovery could lead to safer fishing practices to prevent whale fatalities.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.