On a calm Thursday, spearfisherman and underwater videographer, Oahu Ryan, experienced the unexpected while diving off the shores of East Oahu. Known for his sea adventures, Ryan had never encountered anything like this before.
The First Sighting of the Season
Ryan spotted what he initially thought was a submarine. To his astonishment, it turned out to be Hawaii’s first humpback whale sighting of the season, as confirmed by NOAA’s National Marine Sanctuary.
Initial Reactions
“It’s got to be the most exciting thing that’s ever happened,” Ryan exclaimed. “It’s extremely rare not only to see a whale but to have a whale swim over your head.”
Understanding the Behavior
Ryan observed the whale’s calm demeanor, with its fins motionless as it coasted by. This behavior made him mistake the whale for a submarine at first.
Expert Insights
Eden Zang, Science Coordinator at the Pacific Islands Region Sanctuary, explained the rarity of this sighting. Humpback whales typically visit Hawaii from December through May to breed and calve, making a July sighting unusual.
Whales’ Seasonal Patterns
Humpback whales usually migrate to Alaska after their breeding season in Hawaii. This whale’s appearance in July puzzled experts who are unsure if it’s an early arrival, a late departure, or a whale that missed the season.
Speculations on the Whale’s Condition
Researchers noted the whale’s lack of barnacles, which often fall off in Hawaii’s warm waters. This observation might provide clues about the whale’s time spent in Hawaiian waters.
Safety Regulations
NOAA reminds the public to maintain a 100-yard distance from humpback whales. Ryan’s encounter was fortunate as he did not approach the whale; it simply swam by him.
A Rare and Memorable Experience
“This was a one-in-a-billion chance happening,” Ryan reflected. “I just had like, shivers. I saw the eye. It changed its gaze and just looked at me and kept cruising.”
Conservation Efforts
NOAA emphasizes the importance of respecting marine life and adhering to guidelines to ensure the safety and preservation of these magnificent creatures.
The Role of Spearfishermen in Marine Observation
As an underwater videographer, Ryan’s experience highlights the unique opportunities spearfishermen have to observe marine life up close.
Importance of Data Collection
Researchers stress the need for more data to understand the age, health, and behavior of humpback whales in Hawaii.
The Impact of Unexpected Encounters
Such encounters, while thrilling, remind us of the delicate balance between human activities and marine life conservation.
Encouraging Responsible Wildlife Observation
NOAA urges the public to enjoy marine life responsibly, maintaining safe distances and reporting sightings to contribute to conservation efforts.
Future Sightings and Research
Scientists will continue monitoring humpback whale sightings to better understand their migration patterns and behavior.
A Memorable Dive
Image by GUDKOVANDREY via Depositphotos
For Ryan, this dive will forever stand out as a highlight of his underwater adventures, offering a glimpse into the wonders of the ocean.
Next Up:
Jersey Schoolchildren Gets to See Humpback Whale on Sark Trip and Scream With Laughter
Curious Baby Humpback Whale Gets Lost and Swims Among Boats in Marina
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