Whale breaching has been a popular study for scientists and researchers for years.
While it has been difficult for these marine specialists to conclude why whales breach, several different theories may help clarify this topic.
To help answer this question, we’ll talk about what breaching is and briefly discuss 3 theories as to why these marine mammals breach.
Breaching occurs when a whale picks up speed near the water and then lifts its body and leaps out of the water, exposing up to 90% of its body above the surface.
The whale may land on its side or back during breaching, which often creates a huge splash upon landing.
Regarding why these whales breach, here are 3 theories on the topic.
Whales breach to communicate a desire or a need
It is commonly assumed that whales breach to inform others of a desire or as a form of play.
During mating season, some species are known to breach much more often than during their feeding season.
This suggests that the males may be breaching to indicate a desire to mate or show off their physical prows and youthfulness, which may help them land a mating partner.
Whales breach to let others know of nearby predators
In some instances, whales may appear to breach to look out for nearby predators and alert other whales of possible threats.
One common method for keeping an eye on their surroundings is spy-hopping, where the whale lifts itself partially above the water to get a good look at its surroundings.
Spy-hopping is less dramatic and exposing than breaching, but it may be an effective method for observing their environment when combined.
Whales breach to let others know of nearby food
In highly social groups, breaching may be used to communicate to others that they have found nearby food.
This can be extremely effective in groups that hunt together by quickly locating food and strategizing their plan of attack.
Breaching may even be used to stun the fish to be consumed more easily.
Whales breach to avoid drowning or expel water from the lungs.
More about these amazing animals
Whales are marine mammals, and as mammals, they require air to breathe.
If they try to inhale while underwater, there is a good chance they could drown.
Whales that either accidentally take in water or quickly need to rise to the surface may breach in an attempt to clear their lungs or get oxygen in as quickly as possible.
Of these theories, the ones with the most validity appear to be a combination of using breaching as a form of play, to show off their physical abilities, and as a way to communicate certain desires to other whales, especially during mating season.