Newswise — After decades with only rare whale sightings, the aquatic mammals are being seen along the East coast more than ever—but why?

Stony Brook University associate professor Joe Warren, who researches the habits of humpback and right whales, offers two reasons:• A large aggregation of Atlantic menhaden fish have taken residence in the area that the whales are following.• Due to protection laws, humpback numbers are increasing worldwide. There is actually consideration for them being removed from the Endangered Species list.

Prof. Warren, who has studied whales in Long Island Sound, Antarctica and other parts of the world as a researcher in Stony Brook’s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, says the whales could be harmed if they swim in shipping lanes, resulting in increased strikes.

If you would like to speak in more detail with Prof. Warren about the science behind increased whale sightings, please let me know.