Augusta Whale Watching in July

Whale Watch Western Australia

This afternoon’s tour began quietly, with many Humpback Whales indulging in a well-deserved rest in the serene waters of Flinders Bay. Western Australia’s Humpback population is currently migrating north toward the warm breeding grounds of the Kimberley region, and today the bay was filled with escort pods taking a break from their journey.

As our tour progressed, we noticed several of these pods gradually coming closer together, and soon, the calm atmosphere transformed into a scene of Humpback politics. A particularly dominant male escort made his presence felt with an impressive series of tail lobs near our boat, delivering a clear message to a nearby rival pod. This display of defense was quickly recognised, prompting the neighbouring pod to retreat toward the reef line. However, not everyone was so quick to back down.

What followed was a captivating exchange of body language among multiple pods. The primary escort male repeatedly executed inverted tail slaps, and before long, a dramatic breach from a rival escort reignited the tension. Defensive behaviours rippled through the area, with nearby pods responding in kind, echoing the tail slapping in a bold display of their own.

Up close, we noticed distinct rake marks along the back of the primary escort male, evidence of his many battles in the pursuit of companionship. As the tour continued, the energy gradually calmed, and the whales resumed their gentle movements through the bay. It was a special afternoon spent on the water, offering us a front-row seat to witness the intricate social dynamics along the Humpback Highway.

 

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