Humpback whales increasingly frequent New York coast

Humpback whales are increasingly appearing off the coast of New York, a phenomenon attributed to successful conservation efforts and an abundance of food sources like Atlantic menhaden and sand lance. While once a rare occurrence, sightings of these whales, particularly younger ones, have become a frequent sight for locals and tourists near the Hudson River and Long Island.

Carl LoBue, ocean director for New York at The Nature Conservancy, described the presence of these whales as a ‘spectacular’ new normal. He noted that while humpback whales are common, other species such as the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale are also occasionally spotted in the area.

Historically, whales traveled through the New York Bay from feeding grounds near New Jersey toward breeding grounds in the Caribbean. However, the increasing maritime traffic in these waters poses a potential risk to the whales' safety.