Republic of Madagascar (previously Malagasy) is actually an island nation located in Africa off the southeastern coastline of the ‘Black Continent’ that is positioned within the Indian Ocean. In addition, the main island of this country which is as well acknowledged as called Madagascar which is the fourth leading island (Total Area = 587041 sq km) all across the world as well as is renowned for its flora and fauna genus preponderance of which are widespread to this nation itself. Furthermore, Madagascar is known to be one of the numerous poorest countries all across the world. The national capital of Madagascar is Antananarivo.

Now about the Humpback Whale:

The humpback whale (also known as Megaptera novaeangliae) is actually a baleen whale. It is identified as one of the few larger rorqual kind found within a variety of oceans as well as seas all across the world. In addition the Humpback whale has an extraordinary body shape that comprises of extremely long pectoral fins as well as a twisted head. Over and over again found in situation of animation, the fully developed humpbacks can be almost 12-16 m in length as well as weight virtually 36,000 kg. In addition to this the male humpbacks are time and again heard ‘singing’ as well that in general lasts for almost 10-20 mins. Humpbacks are as well identified to be immigrants covering an area up to 25,000 km per annum. They consume barely in summer season as well as their food for the most part comprises of krill, planktonic crustaceans that are similar to shrimp as well as small fish. Whilst making an attempt to grab hold of their quarry, these humpback whales might smack the water by means of their long fins or else can even molest them straight. They move around to tropical or else sub-tropical water as to rise in winter season. These humpbacks can survive up to almost 50 yrs.

Humpback Whales at Isle-Sainte-Marie

Mating put on show around this time is as well an additional mesmerizing treat for all of the whale-watchers. All through this time these whales practically envelop the complete island as well as one can easily get exceptional quick look of these creatures traveling all the way through the constricted channel, which separates Isle Sainte Marie as of the mainland Madagascar. Moreover the prospect of these whales eating within groupings is as well a magnificent one.

Isle Sainte Marie is for the most part roofed by means of orchids as well as lemur-covered palm in addition to mango trees. The constructive coral reefs as well proffer glorious diving as well as snorkeling chances.

Humpback Whales at Antongil Bay

Antongil Bay is the largest bay as well as is positioned at the northeastern coastline of the island of Madagascar; in addition Antongil Bay is an imperative reproduction terra firma for the humpback whale. Moreover a huge of whales assembles at this place from the month of July up to September each year.

The various other tourist attractions at Sainte Marie, as well as Antongil Bay and Madagascar are as follows

• Band that plays Malagasy music
• Mouth-watering chicken dishes cooked in coconut
• Make out baobab trees that are found at Andohahela National reserve
• Take pleasure in dhow sailing as of Nosy Be

Republic of Madagascar (formerly Malagasy) is an island nation of Africa located off the southeaster coast of the ‘Black Continent’ in the Indian Ocean. The main island of the country which is also called Madagascar is the fourth largest island (Area: 587041 square kilometres) in the world and is famous for its flora and fauna species majority of which are endemic to the country itself. Madagascar is one of the poorest country’s in the world. National capital is Antananarivo.

Humpback whale

The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a baleen whale. One of the larger rorqual species found in various oceans and seas around the world. Humpback whale has a special body shape comprising very long pectoral fins and a knobbly head. Often found in state of animation, the adult humpbacks can be 12-16 metres long and weigh nearly 36,000 kilograms. Male humpbacks are often heard ‘singing’ also that generally lasts for 10-20 minutes. Humpbacks are also known to be migrants covering upto 25,000 kilometres annually. They eat only in summer and their food mainly comprises krill, shrimp-like planktonic crustaceans and small fish. When attempting to catch their prey, these whales maight strike the water with their long fins or can attack them directly. They migrate to tropical or sub-tropical water to breed in winter. The humpbacks can live upto half a century.

Like all other large whale species, the humpbacks too were severely hit by the whaling. Its population declined drastically in the 1960s. Although their numbers have been restored to an extent but yet humpback whales are considered to be endangered species today.

The humpback whales often jump out of the water and make various other gestures like striking the fins pectoral. Humpback whales breathe through their  lungs as like any other mammal They often surface out of the water for breathing purpose. When they surface, they expel the air coming from the lungs. The emission of air is followed by the appearance of the dorsal, squat fin which remains visible when the creature makes its round back to start for another dive. It is this particular gesture of round back preceding the diving that gives the humpback whales their name.

Humpbacks in Madagascar

each year, nearly 10 per cent of the humpback whales migrate to the waters of Madagascar. From June to September, they arrive from the Antarctics to the warm waters of the African nation to breed. The reproduction period gets over by the end of August and often the mother whales are seen swimming with their juniors. Since whales arrive at the Madagascar island area in winter, the tourists are always advised to wear warm clothing and waterproof garments. In case it is bright sunny day, carrying sun lotion is important.

Places of citing humpback whales

The humpbacks can be cited from various locations in Madagascar like Isle Sainte Marie, Nosy Be, Fort Dauphin, Antongil Bay and Tuléar, Anakao in the South and Cape Sainte Marie reserve are also good places to see the whales.

Isle Sainte Marie

This beautiful island lies on the north east of Madagascar and features lush green vegetation and white sandy beaches. However, it is the humpback whale migration that forms the major attraction of Isle Sainte Marie. In fact the people of Sainte Marie observe a festival called ‘Zañaharibe’ when the whales arrive in their waters as a homage to them. These creatures passing by in a gentle and peaceful manner can be seen from July to September. Boats and guides can also be hired to follow the swimming whales. The local boat operators are trained as per the guidelines laid down by the Wildlife Conservation Society ensuring that no harm is caused to the whales and their living habitat as well as preservation of the safety of the whale watchers.

Mating display around this time is also another fascinating treat for the whale-watchers. During this time the whales virtually surround the entire island and one can get excellent glimpse of the creatures travelling through the narrow channel that separates Isle Sainte Marie from the mainland Madagascar. The sight of the whales eating in groups is also a breathtaking one.

Isle Sainte Marie is mainly covered by orchids and lemur-covered mango and palm trees. The favourable coral reefs also offer magnificent diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Antongil Bay

the largest bay and located at the north of the east coast of the island of Madagascar, Antongil Bay is an important breeding ground for the humpback whale. A large number of whales assemble at this spot from July to September every year. Regular whale-watching excursions are arranged here.

Other attractions at Sainte Marie/Antongil Bay/Madagascar

• Band playing Malagasy music
• Delicious coconut chicken dishes
• See baobab trees at Andohahela National reserve
• Enjoy dhow sailing from Nosy Be
• Diving
• Surfing Ambinanibe Ballade
• Waterfalls at Andringitra Mountain
• Ambohimanga Hills

Accommodation at Sainte Marie

• Lacana Hotel
• Princess Bora Lodge

• Masoandro lodge
• Hotel de Charma Vanivola
• Soanambo Hotel