Australia’s South West Whale Watching in Augusta during winter is the perfect opportunity to observe the northern Humpback Whale migration and today dozens of Humpbacks were on the move. The morning was beautiful and sunny after a few days of stormy weather it was nice to observe some calmer conditions for all to enjoy. Escort pods filled the bay as they purposely moved towards the reef line and the males and females were enjoying each others company. One whale in particular looked to be heavily pregnant and it is always an exciting time to observe these females as the anticipation of newborns arrival is fast approaching after ten long months of gestation. A small competition pod formed as three whales followed after each other. A breach and excited trumpeting echoed out around us as one male lifted his big rostrum above the surface and slipped backwards which is a behaviour known as a reversal and perfect for body blocking other whales.
The afternoon continued with similar competition pod energy as one pod of two began to breach, tail lob and pec slap simultaneously as these young whales called out to the others. It didn’t take long before we could see a distant whale barreling towards us, this big male had heard the commotion and was on his way! The breaching continued and we were amazed to see the incredible power of these two whales who seemed to be having a wonderful time. Jostling and chasing followed as the big male arrived on scene and the local Bottlenose Dolphins joined in on the fun. Further pods moved through the area and we soon found ourselves surrounded by Humpbacks and Dolphins in the afternoon sunshine. Eventually the four remaining whales buckled down for some serious competing and began to chase each other around and underneath us, thrilling to hear the explosion off exhalations all around and so very close. Australia’s South West Whale Watching is a wonderful time to enjoy the spectacular Humpback Whale migration and energy of the breeding season flowing through Flinders Bay.
