From Seattletimes · · 50s
Humpback Whale Spotted 60 Miles Inland
A humpback whale was spotted 60 miles from its ocean home in California’s river.
In brief
A humpback whale was spotted 60 miles from its ocean home in California’s river. A humpback whale, known through photo ID for 24 years, has traveled 60 miles inland in California’s Sacramento River. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Whale Spotted in River
Denny Glover saw a fully grown humpback whale surfacing in California’s largest river while fishing.
“One of the guys on the boat, he said, 'I see a whale.' He saw the spout.”
Whale’s Inland Journey
The whale entered San Francisco Bay earlier in the week and has been traveling east in California’s largest river delta.
Scientists Monitor Whale
The Marine Mammal Center plans to assess the whale’s condition and monitor its movements in the river delta.
“While it’s unknown whether this whale is just passing through or if there is an underlying, unknown ailment, the best thing people can do is experience this adult whale’s presence from a respectful distance.”
Whale’s History
The whale has been documented 15 times over 24 years, with its last sighting in Baja California in February.
Whale’s Condition
The whale appeared healthy, moving steadily upstream in the river without erratic behavior.
“It came up and went down in fairly regular intervals. It was moving along at a fair clip.”
The short version
A humpback whale, known through photo ID for 24 years, has traveled 60 miles inland in California’s Sacramento River.
