14 DAY TRIAL // Each year, folks working with the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) try to determine just how many humpback whales have come to visit the warm waters off the Hawaii islands, and the best thing about it that they are ready and willing to let volunteers help.
In fact, they say that they could not possibly carry out this task without the help of whale enthusiasts.
This year's humpback whales counting in Hawaiian waters is to take place on January 25, February 22, and March 29. The administration is looking not only for general volunteers, but also for site leaders.
“The Sanctuary Ocean Count project offers the community a chance to monitor humpback whales from the shores of O`ahu, Hawai`i and Kaua`i. The count is held the last Saturday of January, February, and March (during peak whale season) of each year from 8:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m,” NOAA says.
“Not only has this proven to be a fun volunteer activity for residents and visitors, but it also helps to provide important population and distribution information on humpback whales around the Hawaiian Islands,” it adds.
Volunteers are expected to distinguish between adult humpback whales and calves, and also record what different types of behavior the marine mammals were displaying at the time when they were observed.
Head over to NOAA's official website to learn more about this volunteering opportunity, and don't be shy about registering for the opportunity to count humpback whales in Hawaii.