Blue Whales in Danger

Blue whales are the largest and most beautiful creatures to inhabit the earth. But in recent years, these marine mammals have been spotted closer to shore, putting them at risk for deadly container ship collisions in Southern California.

Kera Mathes, a biologist at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, explained that there has been a significant shift in krill, shrimp-like creatures that whales feed on in the last 10 years. This shift -- in addition to the increase of container ships moving to and from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach -- create a dangerous environment for whales.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 61 whales have collided with ships off the coast of California in the past 10 years.

What can be done to protect these magnificent marine mammals? Why are so many whales popping up near the shore? Find out in this segment of "SoCal Connected."

Featuring Interviews With:

• Kera Mathes, Aquarium of the Pacific
• T.L. Garrett, Pacific Merchant Shipping Association
• Captain Roosevelt Johnson, captain, Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station