Training bio-detector dogs to study humpback whales.

Help "Nature and People" Foundation conduct training for bio-detector dogs that will track whales by scent during expeditions. The data gathered will help scientists develop effective conservation measures for Barents Sea humpback whales—a species listed in the Red Book. Scientists need up-to-date data on these animals. They obtain this information during expeditions, which require significant funding and are heavily dependent on weather conditions. To ensure data collection even in challenging weather, scientists began using a bio-detection dog in 2024. With the support of "Nature and People" Foundation, a Jack Russell Terrier named Zhuzha underwent training and participated in marine expeditions, demonstrating excellent skills in locating whales by scent. The Foundation is launching a training program for bio-detection dogs in the Murmansk region, where volunteer dogs—accompanied by their owners—will learn to detect whales and traces of their biological activity by scent. In the future these dogs can be involved in marine expeditions. Help the Foundation conduct the first training session: rent a venue, transport equipment, and cover travel and accommodation costs for the expert dog trainers and Zhuzha.