In addition to their magnificent size, humpback whales are known for their characteristic songs. The chorus is an unusual medley of whistles, howls, and clicks, but there’s more to these enigmatic tunes than you might first realize. The next time you go on a whale watching tour and spot one of these brilliant sea creatures, regale fellow attendees with these fascinating facts about their vocals.
Humpback Whale Song Trivia
1. They Use It To Communicate
The melodies you hear may sound like beautiful music to your ears, but to humpback whales, they offer greater meaning. Young whales learn this form of communication from adults. When they grow up, males may sing to woo females during mating season or challenge fellow suitors. They may also sing to inform other whales of their presence. It’s believed that different whale populations communicate with distinctive dialects.
2. They Sing for a Long While
Whale watching provides you with impressive views, but if you listen carefully, you’ll be just as mesmerized by the sounds you hear. Humpback whales can emit their signature sounds for hours. In some cases, they bellow the same song every 20 minutes for extended periods.
3. They Share New Music
As noted before, whale songs differ according to population, although they also evolve. Every few years, they learn a new song. Although the reason why is unknown, scientists hypothesize it may be because the previous one grew in complexity and became too difficult to sing.
Now that you’re equipped with a greater understanding of humpback whales, enjoy an unforgettable whale watching experience with EŌ Wai'anae Tours. The family-owned business offers a wide range of sea activities, including catamaran boat rides, kayaking, snorkeling tours, and dolphin excursions off the west coast of Oahu. Visit them online to browse their schedule, or call (808) 699-5910 to book your whale watching tour.