After receiving calls of a whale near Cockenoe Island on Friday, July 28, Westport Police Department Marine Unit responded and confirmed a large Humpback whale was visiting Westport.
Westport Police Officers made sure the whale was not in distress and kept a safe perimeter around him until he swam into the deeper waters of Long Island Sound.
The State of Connecticut says that it is illegal to approach a right whale within 500 yards (1500 feet) unless granted specific exemption or authorization.
They offer Whale Watching Guidelines: "All marine mammals are protected by the Federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. Following these recommended operational guidelines helps minimize chances of harassing or injuring whales and violating Federal law. Guidelines apply to all large whales from Main through Virginia, except North Atlantic right whales."