THE BIRTH OF THE BREATH
Our beautiful humpbacks are more similar to us than we might think.
They evolved from land mammals. Their possible land-dwelling ancestors, the Pakicetus—a goat-sized, four-legged creature—lived around 50 million years ago. As competition for food increased on land, these animals gradually adapted to life in the ocean, eventually becoming fully marine.
Yet, they still carry features from their land-dwelling days, like their nose—which we now call a blowhole. Over time, this nose shifted to the back of their head, making it more efficient for them to breathe at the surface. But even today, we can spot similarities to our own noses!
Humpback whale's blowhole- Taken by Josephine Aussage
One key difference is that when the whale’s nostril is relaxed, the blowhole stays closed—they have to contract a muscle to open it. Unlike us, who breathe unconsciously, whales are conscious breathers. They have to think about every breath they take!
The “blow” we see is actually the release of warm air and water vapor from inside the whale’s nostrils. When this warm vapor meets the colder outside air, it condenses—creating that impressive spout. Contrary to what Finding Nemo might have shown us, this water doesn't come from the whale’s mouth!
Humpback whale's blow- Taken by Josephine Aussage
Every whale can have a uniquely shaped blow, and sometimes, we can even recognise the species just by looking at it! For example, the sperm whale has a blowhole positioned at about 30-degree angle, so when it exhales, the blow appears slanted—making it easier to recognise this species by its unique spout!
Rainbow formation from the whale's blow - Taken by Josephine Aussage
Stay curious—and whenever you get the chance, go whale watching. Try to notice these intricate and fascinating details about our gentle giants.
—Nikolina Sokcic, Guide
- Josephine Aussage, Guide and Captain @latitude.jo