Whale Jumping - Why do they do this?
Whale Jumping - Why? Here are some Reasons - from a List of - 20 of the Most Often Asked Questions about Whales
Scientists don't really know the definitive reason for this behavior except that it is seen by adults and calves alike. It's thought that it is a form of play of feeling gravity - which they can not do underwater. It's thought to be a form of communication but is also seen during feeding runs.
Another thought is that the massive force of their bodies hitting the surface of the water may dislodge annoying sea lice or barnacles that have attached themselves for a free ride.
This FANTASTIC VIDEO SHOWS - the incredible power as one of these "giants" literally leaps from below.....when you witness this spectacle yourself - it will stay with you forever!
All whale species have this capability - but not all performances have been seen by man. The Humpback, Minke, Right Whale and Orca or Killer Whales are the real "acrobats" of the sea.
Another reason whales breach is to get away from the high powered sounds of Sonar from Naval Ships. Whale hearing is so sensitive and sound travels so much further under water that they will do just about anything to get away from this deadly sound - even sometimes beaching themselves!
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