9. What is the main idea conveyed in the passage?
Answer: B
Humpback whale populations have rebounded after nearly being eradicated.
The passage highlights the recovery of humpback whales in the region, emphasizing that a ban on whaling allowed their populations to recover after being heavily hunted. This indicates that the main idea focuses on the resurgence of these whales.
A) Humpback whales are commonly found in the waters near Washington.
While the passage mentions observing a mother humpback and her calf in Neah Bay, it does not emphasize the commonality of their presence. The focus is more on their recovery from past hunting rather than their current population status in the area.
B) Humpback whale populations have rebounded after nearly being eradicated.
This option accurately reflects the core message of the passage. The author discusses the historical context of heavy hunting that led to the near extinction of humpback whales and notes that a ban on whaling has facilitated their recovery. This is the primary theme of the text.
C) The author has never encountered this specific humpback whale before.
The passage does not suggest that the author is unfamiliar with the specific humpback whale mentioned. Instead, it indicates recognition of the whale based on its distinctive tail pattern, which implies prior encounters or knowledge.
D) Both cameras and harpoons are utilized for hunting humpback whales.
This statement is incorrect as the passage contrasts two methods of "hunting" – one being the traditional harpoon hunting that led to the whales' decline and the other being photographic hunting with a camera, which the author finds acceptable. Thus, it does not support the idea that both methods are used for hunting.
Conclusion
The main idea of the passage is clearly articulated through option B, which underscores the successful recovery of humpback whale populations after a ban on whaling. Options A, C, and D either misinterpret or overlook the critical focus on the whales' rebound from near extinction, reinforcing why B is the definitive correct answer.