The breeding season for Humpback Whales is currently underway, peaking during the winter months. Male whales are aware that this is the time when most females are available and seeking mates, which makes the bachelor boys particularly motivated and attentive. Whale Watch Western Australia had an incredible day on the water, observing numerous escort pods traveling through Flinders Bay. We were lucky enough to witness several impressive breaches from a female humpback this morning, accompanied by plenty of pec slapping. This behaviour was her way of drawing attention, and it certainly worked!
As a result, several bachelor males made their way towards her, placing us right in the heart of the action. It was a thrilling experience for everyone on board. Meanwhile, multiple escort pods in the bay began to disperse, trying to avoid potential competitive pods that could form.
This afternoon, we came across even more escort pods, with both males and females appearing quite content with their partners while maintaining a low profile as they surfaced. Not far from them, the bachelor pods were making quite an impression, as three males provided us with an unforgettable experience right outside the Augusta Boat Harbour.
We could hear the males trumpeting and we witnessed numerous blows and round out dives happening remarkably close to our location. Being so near to the action allowed us to see barnacles clinging to the whales flukes and observe rake marks along some of the bachelors males backs. These rake marks are caused by orca scraping their teeth along the backs of Humpbacks, serving as evidence of their encounters with these apex predators in the wild. The unique social dynamics of these escort and bachelor pods added to the magic of yet another memorable day spent with the magnificent Humpback Whales on their northern migration through Augusta.
