Are Humpback Whales Aggressive?

In the past 62 years, there have been 115 documented interactions between humpback whales and orcas (also known as killer whales), according to a 2016 study published in the journal Marine Mammal Science. Reports have described humpbacks defending animals being attacked by orcas, from seals and sea lions to porpoises and other marine mammals. There was one documented incident in which humpback whales tried to save a pair of ocean sunfish that were being circled by orcas. And in May 2012, in the most dramatic event of this kind, two humpbacks spent six hours fighting off a pod of killer whales intent on eating a gray whale calf they had killed near Monterey Bay, California.

Heroes of the seas?

• “This humpback whale behavior continues to happen in multiple areas throughout the world,” says Alisa Schulman-Janiger of the California Killer Whale Project. “(The 2012 event) remains the longest humpback-to-killer-whale interaction known to date.”
• Orcas are known to attack humpbacks, which are most vulnerable when young. However, once grown, a single humpback whale is large enough to take on an entire pod of killer whales.
• Humpbacks are capable of sophisticated thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and communication, says Lori Marino, president of the Whale Sanctuary Project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are humpback whales known to be aggressive towards humans?

Humpback whales are generally not aggressive towards humans. They are considered to be curious and sometimes approach boats, but there are very few instances where a humpback whale has harmed a person. Their behavior is often gentle and cautious around humans, making them a favorite among whale watchers.

What causes a humpback whale to display aggressive behavior?

Aggressive behavior in humpback whales is typically observed during mating season when males compete for the attention of females. They may display aggression towards each other using physical displays like breaching or tail slapping. However, this aggression is rarely directed towards humans or other species.

How do humpback whales behave with other marine animals?

Humpback whales can exhibit both playful and protective behaviors with other marine animals. They have been known to interact with species like dolphins and seals. Remarkably, there are documented cases of humpback whales intervening to protect other animals from predators like orcas, suggesting a complex understanding of their marine environment.

Can humpback whales be dangerous if provoked?

Like many wild animals, humpback whales may react defensively if they feel threatened or provoked. While not naturally aggressive towards humans, their sheer size and strength can make them dangerous if they were to react to a perceived threat. It's crucial for humans to respect their space and observe them from a safe distance.

What should you do if you encounter a humpback whale while in the water?

If you encounter a humpback whale while in the water, it's important to remain calm and avoid sudden movements that could startle the animal. Maintain a respectful distance and do not attempt to touch or feed the whale. Observing these guidelines helps ensure both your safety and the well-being of the whale.

How does whale watching impact the behavior of humpback whales?

Whale watching, when conducted responsibly, can have a minimal impact on humpback whale behavior. However, if boats get too close or chase the whales, it can cause stress and disrupt their natural activities. Guidelines and regulations are in place in many regions to ensure whale watching is done in a way that protects these majestic creatures.