It's whale season! I thought that nothing could beat driving through a rainbow but coming around a curve and seeing a gigantic whale leap out of the water just might. They must have been given the go ahead by their doctors to start exercising after giving birth because Humpback whales are going crazy right now. We have had recent sightings on the Southeast shore, North shore and Leeward coast. I have probably spent a good four hours whale watching this week and am starting to use the lingo while spotting whale activity with the other whale fanatics. Normal whale behavior while vacationing in Hawaii includes:
BlowThe normal pattern of exhalation and inhalation at the surface.
Fluke DiveSignals a deep dive. Following a peduncle arch, the Humpback will usually bring its flukes high above the surface of the water, propelling it straight down. If you see this it means that the whale will not be coming up for 15-45 minutes.
Pectoral SlapThe whale rolls to the side, slapping its pectoral fins against the water. Whales will also lie on their backs and slap both pectoral fins on the water.
Spy HopThe whale rises vertically to a point where the eyes are above water, then spins on it’s longitudinal axis to get a look at the surrounding area.
BreachThe whale propels itself out of the water, generally clearing the surface with two-thirds of its body or more, often with a twisting motion. Amazing!
Tail SlapForceful slapping of the flukes against the surface of the water. Sounds from tail slaps can be heard for miles.
Peduncle SlapAggressive behavior where both the caudal peduncle and flukes are thrown up out of the water and brought down with force, often on top of another whale.
Head SlapHead-first lunge out of the water, the whale pounds its massive, sometimes partially engorged mouth on the water’s surface.
Behavior Guide courtesy of http://www.napali.com/
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