What kind of whale did Emily Marzilli encounter in Magdalena Bay?

Emily Marzilli encountered a Bryde's whale, a large baleen whale found in warm waters.

Where did the whale encounter with divers take place?

The encounter occurred in Magdalena Bay, off the Pacific coast of Mexico's Baja California Sur.

How long did the whale interaction last for the freedivers?

The interaction with the whale lasted only about two minutes, but was described as unforgettable.

Home / Environment / Whale Surprise: Divers Encounter Feeding Giant

Whale Surprise: Divers Encounter Feeding Giant

4 Jan

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Summary

A freediving instructor encountered a Bryde's whale in Mexico's Magdalena Bay.
The whale surged into a large sardine bait ball, surprising the divers.
The brief but unforgettable encounter occurred during a feeding frenzy.

Whale Surprise: Divers Encounter Feeding Giant

In Magdalena Bay, Mexico, freediving instructor Emily Marzilli and her group witnessed a breathtaking encounter with a Bryde's whale. The whale unexpectedly surged into a massive sardine bait ball, creating a moment of shock and awe for the divers. This extraordinary event occurred in November, a time known for vibrant marine activity off the coast of Baja California Sur.

The interaction, though brief, left a lasting impression on Marzilli and her companions. The divers were observing the fish from a safe distance when visibility dropped due to the feeding frenzy. The sudden appearance of the colossal whale, estimated to weigh between 20 and 30 tons, was an unforgettable spectacle.

Bryde's whales are known inhabitants of warm, tropical waters and are considered great whales. This particular encounter underscores the dynamic nature of marine ecosystems, offering a rare glimpse into the feeding behaviors of these magnificent creatures. The divers surfaced in silent disbelief, having experienced a truly once-in-a-lifetime ocean phenomenon.