Humpback Whale Sightings Surge in Brazil After Population Rebounds

Humpback whale watching is increasing in Brazil’s Guanabara Bay as the whale population recovers from historic whaling. The number of humpbacks frequenting the area has grown from 2,000 in 1986 to approximately 35,000 today.

Each year, these whales migrate from Antarctic feeding grounds to warmer Brazilian waters to breed, specifically towards the Abrolhos Bank coral reef region.

Organizations like the Humpback Whale Project and Amigos da Jubarte are documenting the recovery, and the Niteroi tourism agency is offering whale-watching excursions. Officials believe that increased tourism can further support conservation efforts. Similar population increases have been observed in South Africa, Australia, and the Salish Sea.