North Carolina authorities have been alerting boating enthusiasts after witnessing over 115 whales gather north of Carolina Coast.
The humpbacks, fin and blue whales were all spotted in the vicinity of Farallon Islands and because of their endangered status, authorities are attempting to force boaters to maintain the minimum distance required to ensure the whales’ safety.
According to Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary superintendent, Maria Brown, vessels are now asked to maintain a constant speed of 10 knots in boat traffic lanes coming into San Francisco. Fishermen as well as recreational boaters are also asked to maintain a minimum distance of 300 feet from the whales.
According to Bay Area residents, there have been more whale sightings near the shore this year than ever before. Under the Marine Mammal Protection act as well as the Endangered Species Act, whales are legally protected against all forms of harassment.
Blue and humpback whales are drawn in by the massive schools of anchovies as well as krill (the tiny crustacean that whales enjoy to feed on). That’s why more and more sightings of whales have been reported.
Humpback whales have been “guarding” the entrance to the bay for several weeks now, as they have landed in what could be called food heaven.
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