Humpback Whale Range Distribution

Chart 4 -- Humpback Whale Range Distribution.

Humpback whales are highly acoustic animals known for their "songs". Their songs are long and complex intertwining melodies, which can sometimes last up to twenty minutes long. These songs are repeated continuously for hours. The Humpbacks in the North American Pacific populations all sing the same song which progressively changes over the years. The bulk of evidence thus far, points to the singing whales being males; it is thought that these songs are a function of mating behavior. Any device that has the potential to effect, impede, or alter this behavior should be examined critically. Humpback whales within the MBNMS range throughout the Sanctuary boundaries from May through October. The area depicted in red diagonals is the major adult concentration for feeding and migration from May through October, as well as the recreational viewing area from June through September. The area in blue dots depicts the major adult area for feeding and migration from May through October.