"Report: Toxins Found in Whales Bode Ill for Humans"

"Sperm whales feeding even in the most remote reaches of Earth's oceans have built up stunningly high levels of toxic and heavy metals, according to American scientists who say the findings spell danger not only for marine life but for the millions of humans who depend on seafood.

A report released Thursday noted high levels of cadmium, aluminum, chromium, lead, silver, mercury and titanium in tissue samples taken by dart gun from nearly 1,000 whales over five years. From polar areas to equatorial waters, the whales ingested pollutants that may have been produced by humans thousands of miles away, the researchers said."

Arthur Max reports for the Associated June 24, 2010.

SEE ALSO:

"NZ May Join Australia's Whaling Fight" (Australian ABC)

"Whalewatching Worth Billions and Booming: Study" (AFP)

"Anti-Whaling Boss on Interpol Wanted List: Japan" (AP)

"In Whaling Wars, Resources vs. 'Beings'" (Green/NYTimes)

"Flights, Girls and Cash Buy Japan Whaling Votes" (Sunday Times)