A social occasion

- June 12, 2008


Surface active group (New England Aquarium)
Duration: 1:15, Format: Quicktime
Broadband connection recommended

North Atlantic right whales spend more than 80 per cent of their time below the ocean’s surface, so a chance to see these endangered animals on the surface is a rare occasion.

In this video, researchers with the New England Aquarium come upon a large surface active group of whales socializing in the Roseway Basin. Frequent body contact is observed, often with whales rolling on their sides or backs. They generally involve a single female that vocalizes to attract males. Researchers believe surface active groups have a role to play in mating.

SEE STORY: A safer place for right whales