Did you know that the ocean is home to over a million species and only 5% of the world’s oceans have been explored? But, from the species that we have discovered, there are a few that truly capture our attention at the seaside. There are around 90 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, known collectively as “cetaceans”. As gentle giants of the sea, whales play an integral part of the ocean’s eco-system. These marine mammals help regulate the flow of food, maintaining a stable food chain while ensuring that other species do not overpopulate the ocean.
Family
Whales are social creatures that travel in pods and use a variety of sounds and other behaviours to communicate with each other. High pitched sounds that bounce off underwater objects known as echolocation help whales speak to one another and assist in hunting and navigation. These sounds are created through vocal calls or the slapping of surface water. As close-knit families that live in pods, whales often hunt and socialise together, often found singing as they make their way through deep waters.
Migration
During the winter months, whale sightings are common off the shores of KwaZulu-Natal. To escape the bitter cold of Northern waters, these mammals migrate to the South giving us sight into their behaviour and patterns.
Whale watching during the months between July and September are the ideal time to spot them over the horizon. If you plan on spending some time at the seaside, ensure you watch out for these 3 whale behaviours:
With the perfect location, OceanDune offers 180-degree sea views that give you the perfect opportunity to witness these mystic creatures as they pass through the warm Indian Ocean.
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