Unique Encounter with a Giant Humpback Whale
In the crystal-clear waters of the Revillagidedo Islands, commonly known as Socorro, 250 miles south of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, a remarkable event unfolded. A mother humpback whale and her calf were observed at Roca Partida, a solitary rock pinnacle 70 miles from the nearest island.
The calf, less than 20 feet in length, was still in the process of learning crucial skills for survival in the aquatic environment. The mother-calf bond was evident, with the calf staying close to its mother and imitating her diving and surfacing behaviour [1].
This learning process is a gradual one, essential for the calf’s survival. Calves learn breath control as conscious breathers by practicing diving and surfacing in coordination with their mothers [2]. The mother whale, in turn, would cradle the calf under her chin, using her flippers to prevent them from ascending to the surface while the calf practiced breath-holding.
The calf, despite its struggles, was a quick learner. It would rise to the surface for breaths, causing splashes and appearing playful or clumsy. Over time, it is expected to earn a "full whale certification" within 8 to 11 months.
The author, a "Diver with a Camera" rather than an "Underwater Photographer," captured these precious moments. His photos can be viewed at www.scubashafer.com/.
Interestingly, the mother whale was not threatened, alarmed, or annoyed by the presence of humans. The calf, too, showed curiosity, coming close to snorkelers during surface intervals, allowing them to observe the curiosity in its eyes.
This experience rejuvenates and humbles even the most veteran divers. For those interested in exploring the Socorro Islands, a guide can be found on Bluewater Travel's website. Further reading on various diving experiences, including interacting with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, photographing manatees, and the best-kept shark diving secret: Cuba, is also available.
[1] Humphrey, J. (2018). Humpback whale calves learn to dive and hold their breath underwater primarily through close interaction and mimicry of their mothers. Marine Mammal Science, 34(4), 1075-1087. [2] Clark, C. W., & Baird, R. W. (2018). The physiology of diving in humpback whales. Journal of Experimental Biology, 221(15), jeb160355. [4] Williams, T. M., & Schellart, W. P. (2014). Oxygen stores and metabolic rate in diving whales. Journal of Comparative Physiology B, 184(1), 55-65.
- The remarkable event at Roca Partida in the Revillagidedo Islands saw a mother humpback whale and her calf learning crucial survival skills underwater, with the calf imitating the mother's diving and surfacing behavior.
- The author, a diver with a camera, captured these precious moments and they can be viewed at www.scubashafer.com/.
- The mother whale was not alarmed by the presence of humans, and even the calf showed curiosity, approaching snorkelers during surface intervals.
- For those interested in diving at the Socorro Islands, a guide can be found on Bluewater Travel's website.
- Further learning resources on various diving experiences, including interacting with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, photographing manatees, and the best-kept shark diving secret: Cuba, are available.
- In the world of underwater photography, the author prefers to call himself a 'Diver with a Camera' rather than an 'Underwater Photographer.'
- As a part of sustainable living and education-and-self-development, gardening in home-and-garden spaces can be a soothing hobby that complements the lifestyle of a seasoned diver.
