Community Corner

WATCH: Whale Shows 'Personality' in Open Ocean

'Istar' delighted whale watchers across the Atlantic Ocean.

Before Istar, a 30-ton, female humpback whale met her demise in East Quogue last week, she delighted whale watchers across the Atlantic Ocean.

In several videos on YouTube, she can be seen frolicking in the water with one of her 11 documented calves. Those watching from aboard a boat, screamed in joy when her off-spring's tail pierced the water line.

The video, which captures Istar and her calf in July 1989 at Stellwagen Bank (National Marine Sanctuary) off Cape Cod, was shot by Dan Knaub, a videographer from Pennsylvania who specializes in whales.

At that time, she would have been about 16 years-old — Researchers from the Riverhead Foundation estimate she was 40 when she died.

Knaub, who has followed Istar for 25 years, said he was saddened to hear of her death and he said she is one of many whales in the Atlantic with wonderful personalities.

Knaub's video can be viewed by clicking here.

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