Whales are known for their impressive acrobatics, and one of their most spectacular displays is breaching. Breaching is when a whale propels itself out of the water and falls back in with a splash. While it is not entirely clear why whales breach, researchers have proposed several theories to explain this behavior.

Breaching occurs when a whale picks up speed near the water, lifts its body, and leaps out of it, exposing up to 90% of its body above the surface. The whale may land on its side or back during breaching, which often creates an immense splash upon landing.

Apr 1, 2020 · Scientists suspect humpback whales are breaching and slapping their fins and flukes on the surface as a way of communicating. It is believed that all slapping creates sounds used to send messages to other whales, and the big …

Nov 13, 2023 · Breaching is an out-of-water activity performed by whale species, with humpback whales taking the lead as the whale with the most breaches. A whale breach is when it propels its body out of water for a few seconds. There are two types of breaching: a …

Breaching. A breach is when a whale propels its body out of the water. If more than half the body appears, it is considered a full breach. If half or less of the body appears, it is a half breach.

Mar 8, 2024 · From a whale breaching its entire body above the water to its massive jaw scooping and straining prey, explore this visual guide to discover which behaviors you may encounter on your next whale watching expedition.

Humpback whales breach, or jump out of the water, to communicate with other whales through the loud sounds created, navigate, remove parasites, stun or herd prey, play, and express dominance. Breaching likely serves multiple social and hunting functions for humpbacks.

Jan 24, 2023 · So, why do whales breach? Lots of whale species breach, but it’s the right whale, humpback whale, and sperm whale that seem to do it most frequently. Their water surface activity is breaching and slapping their tails and “flippers” against the water.

May 10, 2019 · Breaching and lunging is a common behavior among humpback whales, and witnessed with ooohs and aaahs by whale watchers. In fact, it is what most whale watchers hope to see. Breaching whales...

Jun 19, 2023 · Whales breaching is a captivating spectacle that leaves observers in awe. While the exact reasons behind this behaviour may vary among different species and populations, scientists have identified three possible explanations: communication, territorial claims, and parasite removal.