Based on 5,584 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Humpback Whale is most often recorded in September; in California it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #21 among mammals recorded in the state in our data.
Megaptera novaeangliae
Humpback Whale in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in California in September
Eastern Fox Squirrel
California Ground Squirrel
Mule Deer
Coyote
California Sea Lion
Desert Cottontail
Common Raccoon
Western Gray Squirrel
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Humpback Whale appear in California?
Mainly April–November, with the most records in September.
How common is Humpback Whale in California?
It ranks #21 by number of iNaturalist observations among mammals in California (5,584 records in our sample).