Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) pec slapping in the waters of west Cork, 5-5-2018.

We had another amazing day on-board Baltimore Wildlife Tours, on our "Humpback Whale Search". Among the many playful and interactive short-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), we had dozens of minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and we did find a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeanglia), possibly 2!

We observed amazing behaviour, the humpback whale being widely known for it's acrobatic surface behaviour. Among the pectoral slapping there was also a few breaches! We were very lucky today to whitness such amazing animals right on our doorstep.

This humpback is pectoral fin slapping. This may look like the whale is waving at us but there are many hidden messages in this form of non-verbal whale communication. Females on the breeding grounds use this as a way to attract a males attention, calves practice it over and over again, or it could signal for other whales and whale watchers to keep thier distance. It is for that reason we recommend that whales are not persued at speed and are appraoched with care, allowing the interaction to be on their terms.

Pec slapping often makes a very loud noise as the pectoral fin, which can be up to five meters in length, lands with a mighty splash on the waters surface… 😍😍 Check out this amazing video by Conor Rowlands on one of "Humpback Whale Searches"

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