A crisp, calm morning in Flinders Bay welcomed us today as the northern migration of the Humpback Whales continues in full swing. These remarkable travellers are currently making their way from the feeding grounds of Antarctica to the warm, sheltered waters of northern Western Australia. This journey covers thousands of kilometres and is powered by instinct, endurance, and a whole lot of blubber! Our first encounter of the day was a relaxed escort pod cruising through the shallows near the protected sanctuary zone. Spending extended time at the surface, the pair gave us beautiful, steady views. A peaceful start to the morning that allowed us to observe their steady movements and strong bond.
A short time later, a burst of white water behind us drew our attention to a very different kind of interaction. Another escort pod was caught up in a tense moment of competition. The larger male displayed clear defensive behaviour, breaching and head lunging a total of five times. These loud, powerful movements served as a warning to a smaller challenger. After several impressive displays, the challenger appeared to accept defeat, slipping away quietly toward the coastline. A classic moment of humpback rivalry!
Later in the trip, we were treated to a more subtle but equally impressive sighting: another escort pod, this time keeping a low profile. These whales were taking extended dives. A behaviour made possible by their incredible breath-holding ability. Humpback whales can typically hold their breath for 10 to 15 minutes, and occasionally even longer if needed. Between these deep dives, they offered us elegant tail flukes before slipping silently back beneath the surface.
As always, Flinders Bay delivered a magical mix of surface activity and deeper mystery today. Each pod telling its own part of the great migration story that unfolds here every winter.
