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Whale Jaw-Gape: A New Social Secret?
10 May
Summary
- Humpback whale jaw-gaping is being studied as a potential social display.
- Citizen scientists' footage proved crucial to a recent Macquarie University study.
- Whale migration season in Australia runs from May to November annually.
A recent study, significantly aided by citizen scientists, is shedding light on the unusual 'jaw-gaping' behavior of humpback whales. This behavior, where whales open their mouths wide without appearing to feed, has been documented through social media footage of 66 individuals.
Researchers believe this gaping may serve as a social signal, potentially related to play or interaction, rather than a feeding strategy. This contrasts with the typical lunge feeding, which involves rapid acceleration and engulfing large volumes of water.
Humpback whales undertake their annual migration from Antarctic waters to warmer breeding grounds along Australia's east coast from May to November. During this period, they rely on fat reserves and are generally not feeding.
The study underscores the critical role of tourism operators and the public in documenting rare whale behaviors. This data is essential for understanding these marine mammals, especially as they face increasing environmental pressures.
Authorities are reminding the public to maintain a safe distance from migrating whales, with vessels and jet skis required to stay at least 100 to 300 meters away to ensure their safety and minimize risks of entanglement or vessel strikes.
