Florida’s diverse marine environments, from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, provide habitats for various whale species. These waters, influenced by deep currents and coastal shallows, support a rich biodiversity of marine mammals. Observing these whales offers a glimpse into complex marine ecosystems.
Whales That Call Florida Home Year-Round
Florida’s deep offshore waters support several year-round whale species. The Rice’s whale, identified in 2021, is a critically endangered baleen whale with fewer than 100 individuals. It is the sole year-round baleen whale in the Gulf of Mexico, primarily inhabiting the DeSoto Canyon off Florida’s western coast. These whales spend most of their time near the surface, making them susceptible to threats.
Sperm whales, known for deep-diving, also frequent Florida’s waters, occasionally venturing into the Gulf Stream. These large toothed whales hunt squid and fish in deep oceanic environments. The Gervais’ beaked whale is another species found in Florida’s deep Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico waters. These elusive whales feed on cephalopods in their deep-water habitats. Short-finned pilot whales are also year-round inhabitants of Florida’s marine areas.
Migratory Giants Passing Through Florida
Florida’s Atlantic coast is a key destination for several large migratory whale species. The North Atlantic Right Whale, one of the most endangered large whales globally with about 350-370 individuals, is foremost among them. They migrate from northern feeding grounds to warmer, shallower waters off Florida and Georgia from November or December through April. This region is the only known calving ground, providing a safe environment for mothers and calves.
North Atlantic Right Whales are identified by their V-shaped blow, lack of a dorsal fin, and distinctive callosities on their heads. These markings help researchers identify individual whales for monitoring. Humpback whales also migrate through Florida’s Atlantic waters, passing through earlier and later in the season than right whales. Though less frequently sighted, humpbacks are known for their acrobatic breaches and complex vocalizations. Fin and minke whales are also recorded as migratory species in Florida’s waters.
How to Safely Observe and Protect These Whales
Observing whales in Florida requires following guidelines for human safety and animal well-being. Federal regulations mandate vessels, paddleboarders, and aircraft stay at least 500 yards (about five football fields) from North Atlantic Right Whales. If a whale approaches, boaters should slow down, operate at no-wake speed, or put their engine in neutral. Avoid approaching whales head-on or placing a vessel between a mother and calf.
Reporting whale sightings contributes to conservation, especially for endangered species. Report North Atlantic Right Whale sightings immediately by calling 1-877-WHALE-HELP (1-877-942-5343) or 1-888-97-WHALE. The Whale Alert app also allows reporting sightings and receiving alerts about whale presence. These reports help agencies track whale movements and issue alerts to mariners, reducing collisions.
Whales in Florida face threats, primarily from vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglement. These human activities contribute to whale injuries and mortalities. Noise pollution from shipping and habitat degradation also challenge their survival. Supporting conservation organizations, practicing responsible boating, and adhering to viewing regulations help protect these marine mammals.