It’s not only a Canadian regulation—U.S. regulations also play a significant role in protecting whales from drone disturbances. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), drone operators are prohibited from “harassing” marine mammals, which includes any activity that disrupts their natural behaviors. NOAA recommends keeping a distance of at least 1,000 feet from whales when flying drones to minimize disturbance. Additionally, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) enforces penalties for any actions, including drone use, that could harm endangered whales. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also collaborates with agencies like NOAA to ensure that drone operations do not interfere with protected wildlife. These regulations, alongside regional and local rules, are crucial in safeguarding whale populations from the potential negative impacts of drone activities.