This season has been outstanding for whale lovers.  Not only has the number of animals in Hawaii greatly increased, but the good news from research shows the increase could be as high as 10% instead of the 7% we were told before.  In the past two weeks the channel waters around Maui have been whale highways with mother/calf groups everywhere we look.  The above picture of a large mom pec slapping appeared to be instructional.  After two or three slaps, the little one would jump out of the water in an effort to perfect the breach.  In order for the breach to be executed perfectly, two thirds of the body must be out of the water and a landing on your side, or back, must bring the finish.  The little calf tried again and again while we watched.  When we moved away to give them their precious bonding time together, the calf was still trying.

In the below photo you can see the brilliant white shading of the underside of this large mother humpback's fin.  Researchers tell us the repeated usage of her right pectoral fin would mean she is right 'handed', and about 80% of the whales are.  How very interesting!  We also know that there are five 'finger' bones in their pectoral fins.  This goes for all cetaceans.

Whale watching in Hawaii is in full swing, with over half of the whales preferring Maui County to the other islands.  If you are coming out to the Hawaiian Islands, whale watching should be at the top of your list of things to accomplish while here.  We would love to take you out with us.  Don't forget your camera!

Katie Velasquez is a marine naturalist, amateur photographer, educator and lecturer working in the Hawaiian Islands.  She can be reached at:  reefannie@hotmail.com