Northern Humpback migration is underway along the Perth coastline as a very curious pod pf bachelor males were northbound today. After a couple of days of wind and rain it was lovely to see the sun back out and shining bright with very light winds making for perfect whale spotting weather. Pods were scattered as we decided to join with two young male Humpback Whales who were travelling together happily. Often the male Humpback Whales will look for a friend on the long migration north, safety in numbers and companionship can be achieved when travelling in this way. The young males were both very healthy and seemed rather interested in us as they would come in for a closer look and soon we found ourselves travelling side by side.
Nearby pods had their interest but the pods further away from them managed to maintain their reactionary distance. Due to these whales travelling such vast distances (round trip of approximately 13,000 kilometres!) they try to conserve their energy by not meeting and socialising with every other Humpback Whale they may travel past along the way. Each whale can be very particular in who they approach or avoid and it is always fascinating to watch the decision making process underway. The boys were content though with each others company as they settled into the steady rhythm of northbound whales. A very young Humpback Whale who was likely one of last years babies all grown up was sighted on our return and it was lovely to see this little one making the most of their time in the area and learning. Soon many more yearlings will be southbound providing todays youngster with an opportunity to meet a friend and travel companion to make the journey back towards Antarctica.
