Why do whales jump? Explanation of why it is so powerful and where you can see it
Table of Contents
Why do whales jump?
It is believed that the "jump" of the whale, which is a large leap over the surface of the sea, actually has various meanings and reasons.
Scientists are trying to solve the mystery with multiple hypotheses: to shake off parasites, to communicate with peers, or for fun and diversion.
This article explores the fascination and mystery of whale jumping, including the reasons for whale jumping, representative species, observation points, and manners.
◆Family members who want to enjoy jump observation
◆ If you are curious about the reason for whale jumping
◆Those who are looking for a place to see whales
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What is whale jumping "breaching"?
The "breaching," in which the whale lifts its body from the surface of the sea in a large gesture, is a powerful action that grabs the hearts of all who see it.
Sperm whales, including humpback whales, perform this behavior most frequently, with more than half of their bodies protruding above the water's surface.Full bleaching."The shape is called
This astonishing jump is not a mere coincidence, but is believed to have a variety of purposes.
Definition and Etymology of Breaching
What is breaching?Behavior of a whale vigorously breaking through the surface of the sea and making a violent splash.and humpback whales are particularly impressive in this behavior.
Technically, full body emergence, in which the majority of the body is above water, is classified as "full breaching," and there is also partial jumping, in which only the tail fin is emerged.
The etymology of the word comes from the English"breach (break, exceed)."The name comes from its ability to "break" the surface of the water and fly.
Frequency and intensity of breaching observation
As for frequencyHumpback whales are the most abundant.Some individuals are observed to repeatedly jump from a single to a series of jumps.
Some record-breaking individuals jump 130 times in 90 minutes, which is not mere coincidence, but quite intentional behavior.
The big splash and the dynamic sound of the water landing overwhelm those who see it,One of the best whale watching attractionsIt is.
Why do whales jump?
The answer to why whales breach is not yet fully understood, but several strong hypotheses exist.
Possible purposes include parasite removal, communication, and body condition appeal, and scientists are trying to explain a combination of these.
From here,Five representative theoriesâ
(1) To shake off parasites and dirt
Because parasites, barnacles, and other organisms attach to the whale's skin, jumping can causeThe body surface is struck with a strong impact to remove it.It is believed that
This shock is effective not only for parasites, but also for removing dead skin cells and dirt.
Maintain good health.Functioning as self-careIt is highly likely.
(2) Jumping as a means of communication
The loud splashes and sounds from the bleaching echoed far and wide,Whale-to-whale communicationIt is estimated that it is used for
Humpback whales in particular are known to jump as a signal to their mates and as a behavior to strengthen group cohesion.
It is also attracting attention as the "honest signalling" that sends both underwater sound and visual signals.
(iii) Theory of acquiring a viewpoint from overhead looking at the surroundings
It is also said that jumping increases exposure to the sea surface and provides a "vantage point" that allows for greater visibility from above.
This behavior isTo locate predators and preyIt is considered to have strategic significance.
However, this has not yet been firmly established and remains a matter of speculation!
(4) To scratch the body and feel refreshed
The impact just after the jump was just"I feel refreshed after scratching myself."It is also said to produce effects similar to those of
It is a pleasant sensation, similar to what humans feel after a massage, and the whales themselvesThey want to feel good.Possibility.
This is also associated with behavior as part of play.
(5) Jumping as play and play behavior
Individuals that are healthy and have extra energy are thought to enjoy jumping as a form of play.
Humpback whales are just for fun.Cases of repeated bounces confirmed.The "K" is being played and can be seen to be played like a musical instrument.
Use energy in a meaningful way,stress reductionIt is also an action that leads to
Typical whales that can be seen jumping
Although most people may think of humpback whales when they think of jumping, in fact, various species of whales show us how they jump, each with their own unique characteristics.
The frequency and style of jumping differs from species to species, and this diversity is one of the attractions of whale watching.
Here are some typical whales whose jumping behavior can be observed.
humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Humpback whales are known for the beauty and power of their jumps, and in some places they can be seen jumping not just once, but dozens of times in rapid succession.
especiallyYoung males jump as if "acting".The highlight of the whale-watching experience is that it is truly a spectacular sight!
It is said that the frequency of jumping naturally increases because of the purpose of removing barnacles and dead skin on the body surface.
◆Young males may jump repeatedly, making their movements look like a performance
◆ Jumping is also thought to be performed to remove barnacles and dead skin attached to the body
◆A species of whale that makes the most spectacular jumps on whale watching
sperm whale
Male sperm whales are among the largest toothed whales in the world and have been observed to reach 16-18 m in length.
Especially in the waters around the Ogasawara Islands, they are observed year-round, and during the summer and fall, when sea conditions are stable, their tail fins strike the surface of the water after the tide blows.Tail-slap" or jumpy behaviormay also be seen.
This tail slap is known to be performed as a signal to mates and as social communication, and has actually been reported during whale watching in the Ogasawara Islands.
◆In the waters around the Ogasawara Islands, this species can be observed year-round, especially from summer to autumn, when it can be seen jumping-like behavior.
◆ "Tail slap," in which the tail fin is raised high and strikes the surface of the water after the tide blows, can be seen.
◆A dynamic presence that makes a strong impression on observers with its dynamic behavior with its huge body
minke whale
Minke whales are relatively small baleen whales, ranging from 4 to 10 meters in length, and are known for breaching (jumping).
Examples of continuous jumps in UK and Japanese waters.The graceful and dynamic appearance of the whales makes them very popular for whale watching.
When swimming at high speeds in pursuit of food, they break through the surface of the sea with great force and splash, resembling dolphins and leaving a strong impression on the observer.
◆Bleaching (jumping) may be performed, and there are cases of continuous jumping in Japan and England
◆ observed swimming at high speed when chasing prey and splashing through the surface of the sea
◆An agile dolphin-like movement that has attracted much attention in whale watching
North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica)
Right whales belong to the baleen whale family, and their characteristic behavior is "surfacing," or showing their tail fins on the surface of the water.
They have been observed from Kyushu to Okinawa areas in Japan and in Alaskan waters in North America, where breaching (jumping) behavior has been reported on rare occasions.
Although systematic studies are limited, the observations of local guides,A "paddling" action, lightly tapping the surface of the water while swimmingThe diversity of behavior patterns is attracting attention.
◆ Bleaching (jumping) has been observed rarely in Japan (Kyushu-Okinawa) and along the coast of Alaska.
◆Another behavior reported is tapping on the surface of the water like a "paddle", and its various movements are noteworthy.
◆Rare whales with few systematic studies, but there are examples of local observations
larger whales of family Delphinidae (esp. the pilot whale or blackfish)
Gray whales belong to the cetacean family,Whales are highly social, acting in groups.
They are often observed lightly jumping with their tail and pectoral fins while swimming, and some behaviors have been reported, especially enjoying surf-jumping on waves and boat undertow.
It is a medium-sized species, though, about 4 to 6 meters long,Movement in a herd is powerful,These whales are popular and suitable for observation from the boat.
◆ often seen jumping lightly with tail and pectoral fins
◆"Surf jumping", jumping on waves and boat undertow, has also been observed.
◆The length of the body is around 4 to 6 meters, and the powerful movement of the herd is an attraction to observe.
Whale Watching Spots in Japan
Surrounded by ocean on all sides, Japan is a blessed whale-watching spot with a diverse whale population.
In particular, the Ogasawara Islands, the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido, and the Kerama Islands in Okinawa,Different whales look and jump in different regionsYou can enjoy the
Here are some typical spots in Japan where you can see jumping behavior and its highlights!
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Okinawa (prefecture)
In the waters of Okinawa, from winter to springHumpback whale jumpingto see the
Surrounded by a warm climate and beautiful ocean, Okinawa has manyPopular area where whale watching tours are held♪
The powerful whale jumps fascinate visitors and provide an experience that brings the mystery of nature close to home.
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Kerama Islands
The Kerama Islands, located about 40 km from the main island of Okinawa, are a popular spot for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate to the islands during the winter season (January to March).
Active behaviors such as jumping are especially easy to observe, and combined with the clear ocean, it makes for an impressive experience!
Sightseeing tours are also available,Even beginners can safely enjoy whale jumping up close.Perfect location....
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Held in Kerama!
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Amami Oshima
On Amami Oshima Island, there is a chance to observe humpback whales jumping from winter to spring!
To enjoy the dynamic sight of whales up close in the clear waters,Enjoy both beautiful seascapes and powerful jumpsThe following is an example of a product that can be used in the following ways.
Because it is a convenient base for sightseeing, it is a popular spot for whale-watching beginners.â
Amami Oshima
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Held on Amami Oshima!
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Hokkaido (Shiretoko, Abashiri)
In Hokkaido, Shiretoko and Abashiri are particularly famous as leading whale-watching spots.
From spring to fall, a variety of whales can be observed, including sperm whales and minke whales jumping,The experience in the cool sea is like a different worldThe "I" in the name of the "I" is the word that comes to mind when you see the "I" in the picture.
This is a place where you can spend a special time enjoying the powerful whale jumps in a rich natural environment.
Chiba (Choshi)
In Choshi, tours to see humpback whales jumping up close are highly popular during the winter season.
Easy access from central TokyoThe attraction is that you can easily participate in the event with
Whale watching from a boat is a great activity for families and couples.
Wakayama Prefecture (Taiji Town)
The town of Taiji in Wakayama Prefecture is,One of the best whale watching spots in JapanIt is known as the
This is a place where the whole family can enjoy the powerful behavior of the whales, including their jumps, especially during the whale calving and rearing seasons.
A whale-watching experience awaits families in a rich natural environment♪
Kochi Prefecture (Kuroshio Town)
Kuroshio Town is not only for whale watching,A tourist attraction where you can come into contact with a wide variety of sea creaturesIt is also known as
This is a fascinating spot where visitors can see powerful whale jumps up close in the clear waters and rich natural environment.
It is gaining popularity as a place where whale watching can be fully enjoyed while feeling the bounty of nature and the sea.
Key points for watching whales jump
The ability to see a whale jump up close depends largely on the season and observing conditions.
Furthermore, the first step to sustainable whale watching is to act without forgetting to take safety and the natural environment into consideration.
Here are some tips for whale- and environment-friendly observation while increasing jump encounter rates.
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How can I increase my chances of seeing a jump?
The best way to increase your chances of seeing a whale jump is to target the peak season.
For example, humpback whales,January to March in Okinawa, summer to fall in Hokkaidois considered to be the easiest time to observe.
Also,Sunny days with low wave height and good visibilityto make the jump behavior more visible.
Keep an appropriate distance from the whales.
Getting too close to the whales can stress them andCauses of Hazardswill be.
Many countries and regions have rules that require vessels to maintain a distance of at least 100 m. In Japan, vessels are also required to slow down and stop.
It is important to keep your distance and watch quietly in order to closely observe the jump.
Don't forget to take care of the environment.
When observing whales, keep engine noise down, don't leave trash, don't feed the whales, etc,Consideration for environmental protection is required.
Quiet approaches are ideal, especially for sound-sensitive whales, as loud noises and vibrations can cause stress.
We want to preserve the beautiful nature and the jumping whales for the future,Each individual's action means a great deal.It has a
summary
Whale jumping is not just a performance,Various meanings, including communication and self-careIt is a mystical behavior!
There are many viewing spots in Japan, and observing them in season, weather, and at the right distance can make the experience even more impressive.
Please use this article as an opportunity to deepen your understanding and respect for whales and enjoy safe and environmentally friendly whale watching♪
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