While surrounding circumstances dictate the nature of their activity, sperm whales exhibit several predictable behaviors during their recuperative periods at the surface. Some of the activities are socially motivated and may involve tactile play, affectionate nuzzling, expressive communication, and other forms of social bonding. The whales literally spend quality time together as a family unit.

Other activities are designed for survival purposes. These include periods of sleep, travel to locate food sources and build endurance, the care and nurturance of young dependents, and defensive posturing against predators.

Another general category of more unusual behaviors represents distinctive expressions of excitement, curiosity, and sheer enjoyment. These activities include playing with organic toys found in their environment, engaging with other species like dolphins, and twirling or ‘dancing’ in the water column. At times the whales exhibit a seeming desire for interspecies connection with humans.

In the process of filming their various activities we have been able to capture different tempos, rhythms and moods reflected in the whales whose behaviors we witness near the surface. This has added to our appreciation of them as individuals and as members of a broader society. We are learning a great deal about the culture of the resident sperm whales of Dominica by observing their behavior. Please enjoy these ongoing observations through our captivating footage of the whales.