WhaleID is the first AI system built for underwater whale identification. It uses 7 neural networks to analyze full-body underwater humpback whale photos from dive and snorkel encounters — head tubercle patterns, pectoral fin scarring, body markings, dorsal fin shape, and fluke trailing edges.
Unlike traditional fluke-only matching, WhaleID's anatomical approach works from any viewing angle using our detection system, cross-view network, identity network, and feature network extraction.
Happywhale identifies whales from tail fluke photos only and has catalogued over 70,000 individuals. WhaleID analyzes 6 body regions — head, fluke, pectoral fin, body, dorsal fin, and caudal peduncle — using 7 neural networks. WhaleID works from any viewing angle, not just tail shots. The platforms are complementary.
A free research platform using 7 neural networks to analyze humpback whale photos from any body part, including head tubercle patterns, pectoral fin scarring, body markings, dorsal fin shape, and fluke trailing edges.
Happywhale matches fluke photos only. WhaleID analyzes head, fluke, pectoral, body, dorsal, and peduncle regions from any angle using proprietary detection and custom biology-informed extractors.
Yes, completely free for individuals, whale watching companies, and researchers.
Upload whale photos at whaleid.org/submit. No account required.
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