Pirouetting and gaping: mysterious whale behaviour documented as humpback migration begins

With the help of citizen scientists, researchers studying rare humpback ‘jaw-gaping’ believe the move could be a social display

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ff the coast of Western Australia, a humpback whale is “pirouetting”, sweeping its pectoral fins through the water, its massive jaw hanging wide open. Surrounded by companions, the animal isn’t lunging for a meal: rather, it is putting on a mysterious behavioural display.

Pirouetting and gaping: mysterious whale behaviour documented as humpback migration begins

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