New York Bight is key spring habitat for endangered sei whales. Three years of acoustic data reveal the pattern

Endangered species off New York?

Endangered whales gather just off the coast of New York. It is hard not to be surprised by that.

A research team from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) analysed acoustic monitoring data from the New York Bight, covering 2017 to 2020.

95% of calls concentrated in spring

The results were clear. Ninety-five per cent of sei whale vocalisations occurred between March and May. Activity peaked in late spring at water temperatures of 5–9°C.

This suggests that sei whales may not simply transit through the New York Bight but use it as a seasonal habitat.

What the researchers say

This is the first detailed analysis of daily and seasonal acoustic patterns for sei whales in the New York Bight.

— Maria Papadopoulos (WCS / Columbia University)

These results suggest that sei whales may not just transit through the New York Bight but may use these waters more seasonally.

— Maria Papadopoulos

Acoustic monitoring provides us with 24/7/365 opportunity to learn about whales and dolphins off New York.

— Dr Howard Rosenbaum (WCS New York Bight Program, Executive Director)

Ocean life just beyond the metropolis

The New York Bight sits next to one of the world's largest cities. Endangered whales gather here every spring amid busy shipping lanes and fisheries. Sound recordings have revealed data essential for conservation planning.

For more on marine life, see 'The Casper octopus — 10 years since discovery.'

A note from the author: Manhattan is just around the corner from a whale 'spring base.' That sense of proximity stuck with me.

Acoustic data shows 95% of calls concentrated in March–May. The busiest season for humans is also the busiest for whales — a curious coincidence.