Playful Humpbacks & Other Whales “Kelping” — Wearing Seaweed as a Hat

There is so much that we do not understand about the social behaviors of whales and dolphins. Dolphins off the Australian coast, for example, have been observed wearing sponges as hats in what is believed to be an attempt, though … Continue reading

“Hero” Humpbacks Attempt to Protect Seal From Orca Attack

Recently, Bertie Gregory, a National Geographic Explorer and host of Animals Up Close on Disney+, observed a remarkable attempt by two humpback whales to protect a seal under attack by a pod of orcas in Antarctica’s Weddell Sea. National Geographic reports that … Continue reading

Roger Payne, Biologist Who Discovered Whale Song, Has Died at 88

Harrison Smith, writing in the Washington Post, describes Roger Payne as “a biologist who put his ear to the ocean and pioneered the study of whale songs.” His recordings of their hypnotic, intricately patterned vocalizations — haunting wails, birdlike chirps, … Continue reading

Amazing Video of Humpback Whale Bubble-Net Feeding

Here is a breathtaking video of humpback whales bubble-net feeding in Alaska shot by the University of Hawaii, Mānoa Marine Mammal Research Program (MMRP). The whales use bubbles to create virtual nets to herd their prey. The video was captured … Continue reading

Monterey Bay Megapod – Humpbacks, Dolphins, & Sea Lions, Oh My!

An amazing video by Monterey Bay Whale Watch of a “megapod” of humpback whales, sea lions, and dolphins, taken off the coast of California on September 4th. Humpback Whale MEGAPOD! From Monterey Bay Whale Watch:  This video was taken on a … Continue reading

Serious Threat to Endangered Whales – Ship Strikes & Entangling Nets

One of the greatest threats to many endangered species of whale is being run down by ships or getting entangled in fishing nets.  This week, federal maritime officials have approved a plan to protect whales in and around San Francisco Bay that features … Continue reading