By Terri-lee Reid
Breaching is when marine mammals launch themselves out of the ocean and land with an incredible splash – and humpback whales are thought to breach more than any other whale!
While watching a large whale breach is spectacular, we have to wonder why they do this. The truth is, scientists aren’t really sure but they have some ideas:
- It could be that they are trying to remove skin parasites, such as barnacles
- Perhaps they are trying to stun small fish - making them easier to catch
- It may be a communication tool; a way to signal to others. Young whales who have lost their mother have been seen breaching over and over again, or perhaps it’s to attract a mate or to show aggression
- It could be a way for them to cool off
- Or, perhaps they do it because they just simply enjoy it!
Whatever the reason, it is simply incredible as these 40 tonne creatures perform these acrobatic displays.