Everything You Need to Know About Humpback Whales
It is nearing the time of year to welcome back the majestic humpback whale. Since the banning of whaling practices in the late 1970’s, the humpback population has recovered by 70 percent and are no longer considered as an endangered species. From August to November, thousands of humpbacks make their way south along Perth’s coastline as they begin their migration for the summer season. In preparation of the whale watching season, here are four fun facts to better understand these amazing creatures.
1. The Basics
Humpback whales are mammals just like us! They breathe air, have hair, and produce milk to feed and nourish their young. Humpbacks typically grow up to 15m long and can live for up to 50 years. During the whale watching seasons, pods of humpback whales begin their decent from the Gulf of Exmouth, down the West Australian coast, making their way to the summer feeding grounds of Antarctica. Their diet consists of small crustaceans like krill, plankton and shrimp and slightly larger schooling fish such as sardines, anchovies and herring. On average, a Humpback will consume 1,300+ kilos a day!
2. Whales Have Fingerprints Too!
The underside of a humpbacks fluke is unique to each individual whale. These identifying marks are like fingerprints, no two are the same. The markings are made up of white and black patterned flesh, indents and the edge of the dorsal surface of their tail (topside). Scientists use photographs of whale flukes to identify their movements, migration paths and patterns.
3. Acrobats of the Sea
Humpbacks are highly active and acrobatic creatures, they love to slash around and show off their moves in the form of breaching, tail-lobbing and fin slapping. There are a few different reasons for a whale to breach; the act of breaching can allow for the removal of parasites from the skin, it can assist in hunting and stunning prey, it can be used to claim territory and even as a means of communication to whales that may be far away.
4. Musicians of Communication
Sound can travel up to 4 times faster underwater than it does through air. Taking advantage of this communication method, humpback whales create unique songs and melodies to communicate between their pods and to other whales far away. Songs can last for 20 to 30 minutes each, however, whales are known to sing for hours and depending on the song’s frequency, the sounds can travel hundreds of kilometres through the water. As well as singing, humpbacks have been recorded whispering, grunting, moaning and shrieking.
These wonderful creatures are found in abundance just 20kms from our shores. With our experienced skippers and onboard AQWA marine scientists providing educational commentary, the 2-hour cruise is a wonderful learning opportunity for all ages.