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Bubble-Net Feeding
July 22, 2024

Bubble-Net Feeding

Prince of Whales

We’ve recently seen a really uncommon and complex feeding behaviour known as “bubble-net feeding!” To fully understand this fascinating hunting technique, we need to start with some basics. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about humpback whale diets and feeding habits:

What do humpback whales eat?

   Humpback whales in British Columbia primarily feed on:

   – Herring: Small fish that form dense schools along the coast.

   – Krill: Tiny crustaceans that gather in swarms, especially in colder waters.

   – Other small schooling fish: anchovies, sand lace and mackerel, depending on availability and seasonal migrations.

What feeding techniques do humpback whales use?

   In British Columbia waters, humpback whales utilize various feeding techniques:

  • Bubble-net feeding: creating a bubble curtain to concentrate prey.
  • Lunge-feeding: rapidly surging through schools of fish with mouths open to engulf large quantities of prey.
  • Trap-feeding: involves humpback whales opening their mouths and allowing prey to gather in the shadow of their open mouth, then trapping krill and small fish.

What is bubble-net feeding?

Bubble-net feeding is a specialized technique used by humpback whales in British Columbia waters. It involves a group of whales blowing bubbles in a circular pattern to create a “net” that traps schooling fish like herring or krill. This cooperative effort creates a bait ball and pushes the prey into a concentrated area, making it easier for the whales to lunge through and feed.

Where can you see bubble-net feeding in British Columbia?

Bubble-net feeding is extremely rare, but on some occasions, it can be observed in various locations along the coast of British Columbia. In the Inside Passage, particularly around areas like Johnstone Strait, humpback whales gather during the summer feeding season. The waters around Telegraph Cove and Robson Bight on Northern Vancouver Island attract feeding humpback whales due to herring runs. Additionally, Queen Charlotte Strait is known for its rich marine ecosystem and frequent sightings of humpback whales engaged in feeding behaviours.

See this behaviour in North Island Kayak’s latest video!

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