What to do in Florida: Whale Watching
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Yes, whale watching.
Northern Right Whale Spotted in Florida
The Northern Right Whales were named as such, because fishermen are said to have commented they were the “right” whale to hunt – since they were so slow, swim close to shore, and float once they are killed. Because they were indeed always so easy to hunt, they have become a rarity in the animal kingdom. There are thought to be only about 400 of this endangered species alive today.
Nonetheless, one was spotted today off Melbourne Beach’s coast. That’s on the Atlantic side of the state, for those of you not familiar with Florida.
Apparently, the whale is swimming south with the dolphins. The North Atlantic Right Whale spends summer, spring and autumn north of here, but heads to the waters around Florida in the winter to give birth.
Last week, two Northern Right Whales were spotted off a Volusia County beach.
Sounds like really fun. I love to watch whales.
Where in Florida do you go to watch? A certain beach or city?
I just moved to Flagler Beach and was told that there was whale watching here. I have done some research and the Right Whales migrate from the northeast to the Florida/Georgia Coast. The area from southern GA down to about Melbourne are their birthing ground. Once they give birth they migrate north again. The sad part of this is that hunting and ship strikes have decimated this amazing creatures numbers. There are only an estimated 300-350 Right Whales left, and they are an endangered species. If you are fortunate enough to see one, Cherish that memory, because it may be the only one you will ever see. I now live on the beach, and am out their with my binoculars daily trying to spot one. If you are interested in more information on the Right Whale, check out this site with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. http://research.myfwc.com/products/product_info.asp?id=1646