Humpback Whale Tail Throw
Here we see a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) peforming a tail throw, also known as a peduncle throw or tail lob. While at the surface, the whale pivots around its long pectoral fins, suddenly flicking its powerful fluke and peducle out of the water while dipping its rostrum. This behaviour typically occurs among groups of surface active humpback whales in which males are socializing and (presumably) competing for access to a female in their midst. Often the female whale is the one performing tail throws, but it is seen in primary and challenging escorts as well.
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| Humpback whale performing a peduncle throw at the surface, swinging its fluke (tail) sideways and flinging water all over. Maui, Hawaii, USA. Image: 00182 Species: Megaptera novaeangliae Location: Maui, Hawaii, USA See usage restrictions |
This photograph was taken during Hawaii Whale Research Foundation research activities conducted under provisions of NOAA / NMFS and State of Hawaii scientific research permits.
