NORWALK, Conn. (WTNH) — If you asked me where you could see a humpback whale, I would probably tell you you might want to take a cruise off the coast of Cape Cod. But an increasing number of sightings are happening here right in Connecticut. So what is causing this to happen?

Reports have surfaced of not one, but two whales. So what are they after? The experts say Bunker, otherwise known as menhaden are what have attracted these whales so locally.

Joseph Schnierlein, Research & University Liaison at The Maritime Aquarium says, “Menhaden normally came into the sound for years and years and years, and its so plankton rich thats what the menhaden feed on, whales consider that a delicacy. And right now they have a smorgasbord out here where there are menhaden schools all over the place.”

So how do you avoid a potential collision with these massive mammals? Keep your eyes on the water. If you notice large bubbles rising or a large school of bunker, disengage your drive system and try and keep a safe distance.

Joesph also says, “It’s unnerving when its happens but it’s also exciting. And the whales do not want to land on us, what they want to land on is dinner”

Thanks to the increased sighting of these whales, places like the Maritime Aquarium will be starting whale watching cruises right in Norwalk tomorrow.

So the good new is that these whales will not hurt us and will avoid boats at all costs. Just make sure you keep a 100 foot distance between you and them. If you take a picture send it to us at reportit@wtnh.com.

If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these whales on the sound, please contact Joseph Schnierlein at jschnierlein@maritimeaquarium.org