Both males and females are seen holding pectoral fins skyward and slapping the surface, belly up, hoping to attract a mate.  Pec slapping, as it is called, is commonly seen in the breeding grounds of Hawaii, and the sound this behavior makes is unforgettable.  They are always belly up because their pectoral fins cannot go the other way, say the researchers.  It is really fun to also watch mom and calves doing this same behavior as calves struggle to learn and get it right while mom teaches with seemingly endless patience.

To witness this behavior is truly wonderful.  Not only does it allow a photographer the opportunity to obtain amazing shots, but it enables all viewing to see how white the belly and underside of the pectoral fins can be.  There are ventral pleats that run from the chin plates to the navel that can also be seen.  On newer arrivals there could be barnacles on the tips of the fins, like on the animal seen in the above photo.

The avid whale watcher understands the many benefits of this important communication move the humpback whales are well known for.  For the novice watcher, I have been told by many that this and many other behaviors witnessed quickly reels them in and they are now hooked.  Aren't we all?  Tomorrow we will head out with expectations high and cameras ready.  Humpback whales, here we come.  What will we learn from you today?