Whale Watch: Humpback Spotted Off Myrtle Beach and Garden City
Myrtle Beach, S.C. – Talk about a splash! 🌊 This week, a humpback whale made waves down the coast, with locals and visitors alike spotting this mesmerizing marine giant near the beautiful shores of Garden City and Myrtle Beach. It seems that we’re not just in for a treat with the holiday season; nature is putting on its own show!
Whale of a Tale
On Saturday morning, the Myrtle Beach State Park shared an incredible 8-second video on their X account, showing the majestic humpback whale breaching just 20 feet off the coast of Garden City. What an awe-inspiring sight, right? This huge creature, which can grow up to 60 feet long and weigh an impressive 40 tons, certainly knows how to make an entrance. And guess what? It didn’t stop there! Later that same day, park officials confirmed another sighting of the whale just off the pier. Talk about lucky beachgoers!
A Little About Our Oceanic Friends
So, what exactly are we marveling at when we see a humpback whale? Often considered one of the most graceful swimmers in the ocean, these whales are known for their acrobatics and enchanting songs. They can live as long as 90 years, but sadly, they face numerous threats in the wild, primarily from fishing gear entanglements and vessel strikes. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), it’s a tough life out there for humpbacks, as they navigate our busy waters.
Conservation Stats
As of a report from the state Department of Natural Resources in 2015, the population of humpbacks in the North Atlantic was estimated to be around 11,570, with approximately 900 of those lovely whales frequenting American waters. Now, isn’t that a wonderful thought? Knowing that we might just be sharing our coastline with these incredible beings adds a whole new layer to our beach days!
Precautionary Measures
In light of the threats that humpback whales face, NOAA implemented some important conservation efforts. Back in 2008, they set a speed limit for vessels longer than 65 feet, requiring them to maintain a speed of only 10 knots when close to shore. After all, safety first! Despite these measures, there’s still a significant risk. Sadly, a report shows that five out of the 12 documented deadly vessel strikes affecting right whales involved boats under that length. As of 2022, there were fewer than 350 right whales left. Makes you think, doesn’t it?
What You Can Do
If you’re lucky enough to be in Myrtle Beach right now, or if a trip is on your to-do list, keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures! Not only is it a fantastic opportunity to witness nature’s beauty, but it’s essential to spread awareness about the preservation of these lovely giants. Whenever you’re on the water, always remember: observe from a distance, and ensure that our oceans remain safe and clean for them and future generations to enjoy.
Join the Excitement
Let’s stay connected to nature and support these efforts! Who knows, you might just spot a whale making a splash during your next visit to the beach. Together, we can ensure our coastal waters remain a habitat where these incredible whales thrive! So, keep your cameras handy, and enjoy the beauty that the ocean brings right here in Myrtle Beach.
