Unexpected visitor under the Brooklyn Bridge
A humpback whale caused a stir on Monday when it surfaced in the East River beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, marking the species’ first known appearance in the area in two years. The unusual sighting surprised onlookers and marine researchers, as humpbacks typically remain along the coastline.
Possible reasons for the sighting
Danielle Brown, director of research at Gotham Whale, suggested the whale might have ventured inland in search of food. The river is home to Atlantic menhaden, a key part of the humpback’s diet, along with other fish species like striped bass and flounder. Whales are known to follow their prey, even into less familiar waters.
“It’s not totally out of the ordinary, but it’s always a surprise,” Brown noted. She pointed out that the last humpback sighting in the East River was in 2022, with a similar visit in the Hudson River in 2020. Dolphins have also been reported in the Hudson over the years.
Challenges for urban whales
While the appearance of a whale in New York City waters is awe-inspiring, it also poses risks. High boat traffic in the area increases the chances of collisions, and other hazards, such as entanglement, remain a concern. Brown emphasized the importance of vigilance from fishermen and boaters to ensure the whale’s safety.
“There’s a lot of risks to a whale in that area,” Brown said. She urged anyone who spots the whale to report sightings to Gotham Whale to help monitor its movements and notify others in the waterway.
Likely a juvenile whale
Based on its size and previous sightings, the whale is estimated to be a juvenile measuring between 25 and 35 feet long. While no further sightings were reported as of Monday afternoon, past humpback visitors have stayed in the area for several days before returning to the open ocean.
How you can help
For those who witness the whale, reporting the sighting can aid marine researchers in understanding its behavior and ensuring it navigates the busy waterways safely. “People seeing the whale in the river are actually really helping us out,” Brown said.
The sighting serves as a reminder of the unique biodiversity in New York City’s waterways and the importance of protecting marine life in these urban environments.
