NYC: Whales ahoy!

Marine researchers and environmentalists appeared giddy last week after hearing the calls of endangered whales traveling in the waters near New York City.

Recorded from March through June off the shores of Fire Island, about 13 miles from the entrance to New York Harbor, the sounds represent a huge discovery for the region. Researchers reported hearing the endangered fin and humpback, as well as the North Atlantic right whale (pictured).

Conducted by Cornell’s Bioacoustics Research Program and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the research is intended to protect the giant creatures. Knowing the whales’ migration routes will help ship-traffic managers take measures to prevent collisions between the animals and vessels navigating the waters.