There are few creatures more awe-inspiring than the humpback whale. It’s why countless people go whale watching to see these majestic mammals in their natural habitat. Hawaii is lucky enough to be visited by humpback whales every year, with the best chance to catch a glimpse between December and March. Get ready for your upcoming whale watching trip with some background knowledge about these animals.

3 Fun Facts About Humpback Whales

1. They Have a Unique Hunting Style

Despite growing to 50 feet long and weighing a whopping 40 tons, humpback whales eat tiny sea creatures. As baleen whales, they filter the food the catch, such as krill, anchovies, and sardines, through the baleen plates they have instead of teeth.

One way they capture their prey is by using “bubble nets.” The whales dive deep, then swim back up toward the surface in a spiral. As they do so, they release air from their blowholes, which results in a ring of bubbles that traps prey for them to engulf. 

2. Humpback Whales Have the Second Longest Migration Pattern

Humpback whales’ main source of food lives in the colder waters found near the North and South Poles, but that water is too cold for them to breed. Each year, they migrate up to 6,000 miles from cold feeding spots to the warmer breeding areas, like Hawaii. It was believed humpback whales had the longest migratory journey, but in recent years, gray whales took the title when researchers discovered their 14,000-mile long migration.

3. They are Able to Learn Different Songs

Humpback whales communicate through a complex system of moans, howls, and cries that form song units and even contain themes. It’s believed that this is how male humpback whales attract females or mark their territory. It turns out, though, they can also learn songs from whales that live in different ocean basins.

 

See humpback whales in their natural habitat with Sea Maui in Lahaina, HI. Along with whale watching, they provide one-of-a-kind intimate sunset sailing and snorkeling tours as well as private charter boats that can hold up to 48 passengers, all featuring expertly crafted pupus. Schedule a whale watching trip by calling (808) 732-6284 or by visiting them online.