Humpback Whales

The Humpback Whales of Alaska

These behemoths never cease to amaze. Reaching more than 40 feet in length, these marine mammals, among the largest animals in the world, are graceful in spite of their size. The whales of Frederick Sound, pictured here, winter in Hawaii, where they mate and give birth to their calves. During these winter months, they eat nothing, but when they arrive in Alaska, they make up for lost time.

Unique fluke patterns help marine biologists identify individuals.

A whale stirs glassy sunset waters as it dives under the Delphinus.

A humpback breaks the surface in a partial breach.

Afternoon sun highlights a whale spout and fluke.

In amazing cooperative behavior known as bubble feeding, a group of whales will blow a circle of bubbles, confusing and herding small fish or krill into a convenient to eat group. Then the whales rise to the surface, mouths open and lower jaws distended like those of bullfrogs. They often bubble feed for hours at a time.

Here a large group of whales bubble feeds in the sunset.

Right and below: On into the night the whales blow and roll gently in the waves. (This photo at the right was taken in very dim lighting conditions, hence it is not of the highest quality.)