During the spring and summer seasons in Rhode Island, select whale populations begin their migrations along the coasts. One whale species that migrates to New England waters to feed is the humpback whale. The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is known for traveling long distances each year — one of the longest migrations of any mammal on the planet. Its name is derived from the identifiable hump on its back, which can be seen when one breaches to the surface. Its long fins helped inspire its scientific name, Megaptera, meaning “big-winged.”
Recognized by whale watching
Read more on the Block Island Times website