The Humpback Whale is famous for its elaborate, complex songs produced by males on breeding grounds—the most intricate vocalizations of any non-human animal. It has long, knobbly pectoral flippers up to 16 feet long and is a remarkably acrobatic species known for dramatic breaches, fin slaps, and lobtailing. Humpbacks employ cooperative bubble-net feeding, in which groups corral fish schools inside spiraling columns of rising air bubbles.
Best time to see a Humpback Whale
The best time to see a Humpback Whale is May–September, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 11,711 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Humpback Whale? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Humpback Whale sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Humpback Whale? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Humpback Whale is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love mammals? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.