Imagine standing just 30 feet away from a 50-foot, 45-ton humpback whale as it propels itself out of the water in a magnificent breach. These awe-inspiring images, captured off the coast of southeast Alaska by wildlife photographer Jon Cornforth, offer a rare and intimate view of the ocean’s gentle giants.
These female humpback whales, with the grace and agility of dolphins, break through the ocean’s surface in an astonishing display of power and elegance.
The Graceful Giants Humpback Whales of Frederick Sound
The images showcase humpback whales at Frederick Sound in the Alexander Archipelago, a stunning and biodiverse region in southeast Alaska. These whales, some weighing up to 45 tons, are seen fully breaching the water, their massive bodies leaping into the air with surprising nimbleness. One whale’s nose can be seen reaching an impressive 40 feet above the waterline, a testament to the sheer strength it takes to propel such a large creature.
Cornforth’s dedication to capturing these moments up close is remarkable. The Seattle-based photographer spent over 12 weeks across four years, patiently watching and documenting the behavior of these incredible animals. His proximity to the whales, at times as close as 30 feet, allowed him to capture the intimate details of their behavior, bringing these images to life for viewers worldwide.
A Feeding Frenzy: The Bubble-Net Hunting Strategy
One of the most fascinating behaviors documented in Cornforth’s photos is the bubble-net feeding technique used by the humpbacks. This intricate hunting method involves a group of whales working together in perfect harmony to capture vast schools of herring that spawn in the area.
During this hunt, one or two whales dive as deep as 500 feet, releasing streams of air bubbles in a circular pattern. These bubbles rise to the surface, effectively trapping the fish within the “net.” The rest of the group, which can consist of up to 12 whales, then swims through the circle, scooping up the trapped herring in a synchronized feeding frenzy.
This cooperative behavior is a unique spectacle to witness, as each whale plays a specific role in the process. The entire group consists of female humpbacks, returning to the same spot year after year to feed together. Cornforth’s images reveal the sisterhood and teamwork within this matriarchal group, showcasing the whales’ intelligence and social structure.
The Mystery of the Female-Only Humpback Whales Hunting Group
The ritual of bubble-net feeding is carried out exclusively by female humpback whales, a phenomenon that has puzzled marine biologists for years. Some speculate that this might indicate a matriarchal society similar to that of killer whales.
In this group, each female seems to have a designated role in the feeding process, with some diving to create the bubble-net while others wait to feast on the trapped herring.
Cornforth has observed the same whales performing the same roles time and again, suggesting a deeply ingrained social structure within this pod.
The bubble-net itself, which can measure up to 75 meters in diameter, is an incredible feat of coordination and power, allowing the whales to repeatedly capture large quantities of herring over extended periods. These remarkable creatures can perform this feeding ritual for up to 10 hours, resurfacing every four to five minutes to catch their breath.
The Photographer’s Journey
Capturing these images was no easy feat. Cornforth’s quest to photograph the humpback whales required extensive planning and determination.
On his most recent trip, he traveled 120 miles by boat and spent three days scouring the ocean for the perfect opportunity. His patience paid off when he finally encountered the whales, allowing him to document their breathtaking breaches and complex feeding behaviors.
“It’s an incredible experience to witness,” said Cornforth. “These animals rise above the water for only a brief moment before disappearing back into the waves, but it’s a sight that stays with you long after they’re gone. I hope these images convey just how magnificent and awe-inspiring these creatures truly are.”
A Glimpse into Nature’s Grandeur
Humpback whales are among the ocean’s most extraordinary mammals, and Cornforth’s photographs offer a window into their fascinating world. Their power, grace, and intelligence are on full display as they breach the water and work together in their synchronized bubble-net feeding.
These images serve as a reminder of the incredible biodiversity found in Alaska’s waters and the importance of preserving these environments for future generations.
Through his lens, Cornforth allows us to witness the majesty of the humpback whales and their natural behaviors in a way that few have experienced firsthand. As we gaze at these stunning images, we are reminded of the deep connection we share with the natural world and the creatures that inhabit it.
