“Bound by Curiosity: The Diver’s Unforgettable Encounter with a Playful Giant Beneath the Waves”
Protectors Of The Ocean
Since humpback whales are omnivorous, they’re the furthest thing from being predators. In fact, they have even been described as protectors of the ocean and have been known to come to the aid of other species of whales, seals, and dolphins that are under threat by predators.
Nan Hauser explained this concept with an example: “There is a published scientific paper about humpbacks protecting other species of animals, by Robert Pitman […] “For instance, they hide seals under their pectoral fins to protect them from killer whales.”
Are Humpbacks Altruistic?
A 2016 study found 115 recorded instances in the last 62 years in which humpback whales have intervened in attacks in order to save their calves and other species. Humans refer to acts like these as compassion, but scientists refer to it as altruism.
While people like to associate animals with human behavior, Hauser commented that “I tried a lot not to anthropomorphize any of the behavior that I see.” Yet, her footage might prove that there is an argument for altruism among these whales.
There’s Still Some Debate
It’s possible that the whale thought that Hauser in her wetsuit was a seal or maybe even a baby whale. Regardless, Hauser claims that “whales truly display altruism – sometimes at the risk of losing their own lives.”
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