Kauai Whale Watching Tours
Kauai Whale Watching Tours :: Humpback Whale Behaviors
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Na Pali Riders Whale Watching Tours... We strive to create unforgettable Kauai whale watching experiences on all of our Zodiac® raft tours. The Humpback whale makes this possible with its characteristic, acrobatic
performances that have made it the most entertaining of all whale species to watch in the wild.
This photo collection of Humpback whale behaviors is merely a glimpse at the delightful personality and intelligent mind of the Humpback whale.
[All photos taken by Na Pali Riders]
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Blow
Adult Humpback whales take a breath every 10-15 minutes, but may remain under water for as long as 45 minutes. Calves must breathe every 3-5 minutes.
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Photo: William Crane
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Spy Hop
The Humpback whale vertically pops its head out of the water. It is believed that this behavior allows the whale to view activity above the surface of the water.
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Photo: Danney Brinks
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Tail Slap
The Humpback whale uses its tail flukes to repeatedly slap the surface of the water. The slapping is repetitive and may be signaling a warning to other whales.
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Photo: William Crane
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Pectoral Fin Slap
The Humpback whale uses its pectoral fins to slap the water's surface. The Humpback whale may use one or both of its fins for this behavior.
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Photo: William Crane
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Head Lunge
The Humpback whale performs this competitive behavior, where it lunges its massive head forward as it is raised above the water's surface.
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Photo: William Crane
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Peduncle Slap
The Humpback whale raises its tail high out of the water and slaps its peduncle against the surface.
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Photo: William Crane
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Fluke Up Dive
The Humpback whale dives deep under water causing the tail to first form an upward arch, then slowly descend vertically underwater.
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Photo: William Crane
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Breach
The Humpback whale uses its tail to push its entire body out of the water into midair, then comes crashing down on the water with huge splash.
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Photo: William Crane
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© 2010 Na Pali Riders, Inc.
