In July 2025, NOAA scientists shared the magical moment a humpback whale breached – from the whale’s point of view.
“You’ve seen a breach, but have you seen it from the whale’s point of view?” said NOAA Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS) on Instagram.
The researchers shared a video taken by non-invasive suction-cup tags attached to a humpback whale named Spell. Scientists use these tags to collect data on the animals they are studying. In some instances, like this one, they can capture video footage.
“While the tags can be programmed off for a timed release, they often pop-off due to the whale’s natural behaviour, such as breaching,” said NOAA SBNMS.
And that’s exactly what happened in the footage they shared. A humpback whale propels herself through the water by moving her powerful tail. Then, after she’s gathered enough speed, she shoots to the surface and jumps joyfully out of the water.
As she landed with a splash, she also managed to dislodge the tiny camera. "The tag popped off moments after her [breach],” said NOAA SBNMS.
There are many theories around why whales breach but it could be to do with communication, removing parasites or just because it’s so much fun.
Video and image credit: collected under NMFS permit 27272-01 | NOAA Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS) | Laura Howes
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