#Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

New research reveals a daily pattern pattern for humpback whale songs which dominate the marine soundscape during the winter months off Maui. Researchers with the University of Hawai’i, in partnership with NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary found that whales move their singing away from shore throughout the day and return to the nearshore in the evening.

Maui Mauka Conservation Awareness Training will be held Nov. 16 to provide education about native ecosystems and species found in Hawaiʻi — and the projects that are helping to conserve them — to tour operators and guides.

A total of 136 whale sightings were recorded during the 15 minute period between 10 and 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, during the third coordinated count this year between the Pacific Whale Foundation on Maui and the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.

NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries has withdrawn its proposal to expand the size and focus of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary around Hawaiʻi, and will instead remain focused on humpback whales.

Cultural advocates Kimo Kapahulehua of Maui and Walter Ritte of Molokai are among 10 new council members selected for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.