Whale Behaviors You’ll See
Understanding whale behavior enhances your experience. Here’s what to watch for.
Orca Behaviors
Carousel Feeding: Orcas work together to herd herring into a tight ball, then stun them with tail slaps. Spectacular to witness.
Spy-Hopping: Rising vertically to look around. Often means they’re checking out your boat!
Tail Slapping: Using tail to stun fish or communicate. Creates dramatic splashes.
Breaching: Leaping out of water. Less common in orcas than humpbacks.
Humpback Behaviors
Lunge Feeding: Bursting through surface with mouth open, catching fish. Very dramatic.
Bubble-Net Feeding: Creating curtain of bubbles to trap fish. Cooperative and fascinating.
Breaching: Full body leap out of water. Stunning to photograph.
Pectoral Slapping: Slapping enormous fins on surface. Communication behavior.
What Behavior Means
| Behavior | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| Carousel | Active hunting |
| Spy-hop | Curiosity |
| Logging | Resting |
| Fast travel | Moving between areas |
| Tail slap | Feeding or communication |
Best Photography Behaviors
- Spy-hopping (eye contact possible)
- Tail flukes (humpback ID shots)
- Breaching (dramatic action)
- Carousel feeding (shows pod cooperation)
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