What is Kelping?

And why do whales exhibit this behaviour?

Have you ever imagined a whale enjoying a spa day? Humpback whales have their own version of natural exfoliating scrub, and it’s more common than scientists previously thought. This behaviour, affectionately known as “kelping,” involves humpbacks frolicking in seaweed and kelp to maintain their skin health.

Humpbacks are known to use kelp to dislodge barnacles and lice that accumulate on their skin. By rolling around and playing with clumps of kelp at the water’s surface, these gentle giants get a natural scrub that helps remove dead skin and parasites. It’s akin to an all-natural exfoliating session that refreshes their skin.

Other types of cetaceans, such as killer whales, have been seen engaging in this behaviour. This playful and practical exfoliation has been observed in different individuals across various locations worldwide, indicating that kelping is a “global phenomenon.” The research, published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, highlights that humpbacks often engage in this activity regardless of where they are in the world, demonstrating a widespread and consistent habit!

The sight of killer whales or humpback whales rolling in seaweed is not just a delightful spectacle; it’s a testament to the ingenious ways these creatures take care of themselves. Next time you see a humpback whale, imagine them enjoying a bit of a spa treatment in the ocean!