Story and Photo by www.PhotoByVivian.com

We are once again graced by the migration of Humpback Whales here on the Central Coast. A species of Baleen Whale, Humpback Whales as a whole are very friendly and curious animals. Some Humpback Whales referred to as “friendlies” will approach kayakers and boats many times staying with or under them.
A Humpback’s lifespan is about 50 years and an adult Humpback weighs on average about 80,000 pounds and can reach up to 60 feet in length. They are known for their long pectoral fins, which can be up to 15 feet and used to maneuver, slow down and even back up! The females are larger than the males. They only eat in the summer and can eat up to 3,000 pounds or more of food per day, primarily krill, plankton and small fish. It is believed the Humpbacks are here in the bay a month earlier than their usual migration due to the large numbers of available anchovies.
Humpbacks have some interesting habits. They breach, lobtail and spyhop. A Humpback will spyhop to take a look around. It is not clear why they breach or lobtail. It could have a social meaning, it could be to loosen parasites or they may simply be playing. Humpbacks sing and are the most vocal and nosiest of all whales.