WHALE-WATCHING GUIDELINES

If you're out on the waters of New York, you probably have a good chance at seeing a whale or dolphin. Whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and seals move and dive beneath the surface so keep an eye out in front but also around you when out on the water. Marine mammals and sea turtles are federally protected by the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. If you see any while out on the water, remember to keep your distance:

  • 500 yards away from the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale
  • 75-100 yards away from other whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and seals

For more information, see our article in The Fisherman.

 

If you see an animal that is in distressed, entangled, in a dangerous location (for example, an inlet or bay), or dead, report it as soon as possible to New York Stranding Hotline (631-369-9829), sightings@amseas.org, the New Jersey Stranding Hotline (609-266-0538), the National Marine Fisheries Service Stranding Hotline (866-755-6622), or the Whale Center of New England (978-281-6351).



You can help prevent injuries like these!