Every winter, North Pacific humpback whales renew their journey from the colder feeding grounds between California and the Bering Sea towards warmer nursing areas. While the journey has already begun, the bulk will arrive in their mating and calving grounds between January and March.
Half of the population spends their winter around Hawaii. The reoccurring presence of these several thousand whales around the islands poses significant threats for both, the animals as well as the human inhabitants. Especially calves are prone to ship and boat strikes since they frequent the water surface more often. Entanglement is also a major problem for the whales’ wellbeing.
NOAA has urged the Hawaiians to be increasingly careful and responsible when out on the water. Ships and boats should be going at a safe speed and avoid areas with a high likelihood of humpback whale presence. Since the animals are protected by the state and federal agencies, approaching them on boats, in the water or with drones is illegal.
The Whale National Marine Sanctuary, as well as NOAA and the Hawaiian Islands Large Whale Entanglement Response Network, are preparing for emergencies while awaiting this iconic yearly event.
More info can be found here: https://www.thegardenisland.com/2020/12/20/lifestyles/humpback-whale-season-underway-2/
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