During the Sanctuary Ocean Count and Great Whale Count on February 22, about 500 volunteers recorded 262 sightings of humpback whales in 15 minutes. Across the Hawaiian Islands, 1,947 sightings were reported, albeit some might be duplicates. Data from 44 sites was gathered by volunteers as part of continuing research on humpback whales. Every winter, these whales travel to Hawaii to mate, give birth, and care for their young.

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