Humpback Whale
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to Download a VIDEO CLIP on Humpback Whale. (6.07MB AVI)Humpbacks are traditionally very active and playful and demonstrate many
spectacular and interesting actions. It is an amazing sight to see Humpbacks leaping out
of the water while splashing their flukes (tails)and large flippers in the air. They also display unique and interesting behavior while they are feeding. The Humpbacks reside in areas that are rich in krill (shrimp-like organisms). As they feed, they spiral upward toward the surface while exhaling to confuse other whales. They herd their prey by creating a net of bubbles. As they approach the surface their jaws open and they scoop up a mouthful of krill.
These enormous creatures take in approximately a ton of food a day. Humpbacks strain their food by using their baleen (comb-like teeth) attached to their upper jaw. Baleen was used to make oil for lamps, clothing and other useful things. The demand for baleen almost led to the extinction of humpback whales. Today nearly 2,000 whales survive with close to 300 residing in the waters of Southeast Alaska.
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Video Clip by: Alaska Video Postcards
Text by: 1998 Juneau Guide,
Alaska's Mammals (Pg. 68-69)
Photo by: AK Division of Tourism
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