Scientist: Humpback whale sightings at Coney Island are a good sign
Conservation scientist Sarah Trabue, of the ocean giant's program at the Wildlife Conservation Society spotted a humpback whale. She says it's a great sign if we're seeing whales so close to our shores.
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The wildlife in the water at Coney Island has been getting some interesting visitors lately – and we’re not talking about sharks this time.
Just a few miles from Coney Island, conservation scientist Sarah Trabue, of the ocean giant's program at the Wildlife Conservation Society spotted a humpback whale. She took photos of it and was able to capture the city's skyline in view, too. She says it's a great sign if we're seeing whales so close to our shores.
"So that's super exciting it suggests that efforts to restore the quality of the habitat here have made it more suitable for use by marine mammals including whales, dolphins, and porpoises." says Trabue.
Scientists say that whale sightings have been increasing over the recent years. But more whales in a heavily populated area means more interactions with people. So, if you see a whale make sure to give it plenty of space. And if a whale washes up on shore call the New York stranding hotline.
The WCS also has two underwater buoys to detect when whales are producing sound. The sounds then get sent back to people on shore and the aquarium and you'll be able to see what whales were detected. It's to help them see what whales are here and why. But all in all, scientists say we should appreciate being around amazing creatures.
"Just get out there get out in your own backyard and see those dolphins, see those whales, but be responsible about it," says Trabue.
