Early mornings off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador can be as crisp as an apple fresh from the tree, but for those watching carefully, the real treat is when a fluke breaks the water’s calm surface. On just such a set of sparkling June days, Hedley—a male humpback with a knack for unexpected appearances—gave everyone a reason to keep their binoculars at hand.

His adventure began on June 26th, 2026, in Witless Bay. It was one of those mornings where the horizon sparkled, and capelin danced in silvery schools. Suddenly, there was Hedley, lifting his massive tail as if to say, 'There’s plenty to see below.' By June 30th, he was spotted in the same bay again, almost as if he was making a point of lingering for a second round of admirers and perhaps an extra mouthful of fish.

Hedley didn’t stay put, though. By July 19th, he’d moved to Mobile Bay, just a short journey down the coast. The seabirds seemed just as excited as the whale watchers—the commotion beneath the surface set off a feast above, and Hedley’s presence made the scene all the grander. In these bays, surrounded by the rolling green and the ever-present call of gulls, Hedley moved with a confidence known only to those who truly belong to the sea.