Blow

A blow is the powerful burst of warm air and vapor that rises when a whale
exhales. It can reach 15 feet into the air and helps spotters
locate whales from a distance.

Spy hop

A whale lifts its head vertically out of the water to look around. This behavior
allows humpbacks to visually inspect their surroundings
above the surface.

Tail slap

The whale raises its tail and slaps it forcefully onto the water’s surface. This
creates a loud sound that may function as communication or warning.

Pectoral slap

A humpback rolls to the side and hits the water with one of its long pectoral fins.
These fins can be up to 15 feet long, and the slap can echo
across great distances.

Head lunge

The whale propels its head above the surface in a sudden, powerful thrust.
This can signal assertiveness or agitation among nearby whales.

Peduncle throw

A humpback swings the back half of its body out of the water and slams its
peduncle (tail stock) sideways. This is one of the whale’s most aggressive displays.

Peduncle arch

Before diving or maneuvering, the whale arches the region between its dorsal fin
and flukes. This motion often precedes other behaviors and shows control and strength.

Fluke up dive

The whale raises its tail flukes high into the air before diving. The underside of each
fluke has unique markings, helping researchers identify individual
whales.

Breach

A humpback launches most of its body out of the water and crashes back down
in a dramatic splash. Breaching may be used for communication, play,
or parasite removal.

Fluke down

The whale lowers its tail as it descends without lifting it fully above the surface.
This subtle behavior often signals a shallower dive.