Humpback whale behaviour
Whale Watching season has begun so we thought it was time for a refresher on whale behaviour. Experts believe that some behaviours assist with navigation and allow them to communicate with other whales. The following is some theories on common whale behaviours.
BREACHING
There are many theories why humpback whales breach including to attract other whales, to warn off other males or simply as a form of communication, no one really knows!
TAIL THROW (LOB-TAILING) TAIL SLAPPING & PEC SLAPPING
Assumed to be a form of communication and suspected to be a sign of aggression or warning.
CHIN SLAP (SPY HOPPING)
It is believed that humpback whales do this simply so they can have a look around!
BLOW
Each species of whale has a distinctive blow which consists of air, water vapour and mucus. The humpback whales blow is described as ‘short & bushy’. Whales cannot breathe involuntarily so they must consciously think about surfacing to breathe.