Unprovoked whale encounters with humans are exceptionally rare events. Despite their immense size, intentional attacks on humans are highly uncommon. Understanding their natural behaviors helps dispel misconceptions.
Whale Species and Their Interactions
Whales are broadly categorized into two main groups: baleen whales and toothed whales. Baleen whales, such as humpbacks, blue whales, and gray whales, are filter feeders that consume small organisms like krill and fish. They have baleen plates instead of teeth, and their small throat size makes swallowing a human impossible. They are not aggressive and often show curiosity towards vessels.
Toothed whales, like orcas and sperm whales, have teeth and hunt larger prey such as fish, squid, and other marine mammals. Despite their predatory nature, wild toothed whales rarely show aggression towards humans. Though their throats are larger, they do not view humans as prey. Both types generally coexist peacefully with humans.
Understanding Rare Incidents
While direct attacks are uncommon, isolated incidents involving whales and humans have occurred, almost always under specific circumstances. Only one documented case exists of a wild orca biting a surfer (1972). Recent interactions in the Iberian Peninsula, where orcas have rammed boats, are considered by researchers to be play or learned behavior within specific pods, not intentional aggression. These events, though disruptive, are not predatory.
Large baleen whales may inadvertently contact humans or boats, often during feeding. One rare incident involved a humpback whale inadvertently engulfing a kayaker during feeding, which was not aggression. These are accidental, resulting from natural behaviors. In captivity, interactions, particularly with orcas, have resulted in injuries and fatalities. These are attributed to the stress and unnatural conditions of confinement, not wild behavior.
Interpreting Whale Behavior
Many whale behaviors observed at the surface, which might appear forceful or threatening, are natural actions with various ecological purposes. Breaching, where a whale propels its body out of the water, is believed to be communication, a display of strength, or a way to dislodge parasites. The loud splash created upon re-entry can travel long distances underwater, serving as a signal to other whales.
Tail slapping, or lobtailing, involves a whale striking the water with its tail flukes. This behavior can serve as a warning, a form of communication, or a method to herd prey, particularly for humpback whales during feeding. Close approaches to boats often stem from curiosity, especially among younger whales and humpbacks, who may investigate vessels. These interactions suggest inquisitiveness, not hostile intent.
Safe Practices Around Whales
Observing whales can be rewarding, and following established guidelines ensures safety for humans and marine life. Maintaining a respectful distance is paramount, with regulations recommending at least 100 yards (91 meters) from most whales. Specific rules apply to certain species; for example, North Atlantic right whales require 500 yards (457 meters), and some killer whale populations require 200 to 400 yards (183 to 366 meters).
Vessels should avoid approaching whales head-on, from directly behind, or in a manner that cuts off their path. It is also important not to separate mothers from their calves. If a whale approaches, put the engine in neutral and do not re-engage propulsion until it moves a safe distance away. Feeding or touching whales is prohibited and harmful.