First Photographs Of Humpback Whale Sex Feature Two Males In The Act

First Photographs Of Humpback Whale Sex Feature Two Males In The Act

Humans’ first sighting of humpback whale sex appears to have been coitus between two males.

A study published by the Marine Mammal Science journal details researchers’ first-ever observation of humpback intercourse, which was captured by photographers off the coast of Maui, Hawaii in January 2022.

Photographers Lyle Krannichfeld and Brandi Romano witnessed two male humpback whales approach a boat and circle around it before engaging in sexual activity underneath.

The underwater tryst marks both the first time humpback whales — a species which can span 50 feet long and weigh more than 30 tons — have been observed copulating and is the first recorded instance of homosexual behavior in the species.

According to Stephanie Stack, a whale researcher at the Pacific Whale Foundation and lead author of the new paper, the sexual behavior of humpback whales has “remained mostly a mystery until now.”

Close-up of a less amorous humpback.

George Ofei / 500px via Getty Images

“This discovery challenges our preconceived notions about humpback whale behavior,” she told The Guardian. “While we have long recognized the complex social structures of these incredible creatures, witnessing the copulation of two male whales for the first time is a unique and remarkable event.”

According to the paper, witnesses saw one of the whales holding the other in place with its pectoral fins while penetrating it.

Humpback whale penises are usually concealed in a “genital slit” and scientists have only rarely seen them unsheathed, according to the study. The paper speculates that the male humpbacks could have used the genital slit or anus for same-sex copulation.

Scientists think humpback’s homosexual tendencies may be a way to practice reproductive behaviors, could be a way to form social alliances or to assert dominance.

Support HuffPostOur 2024 Coverage Needs You

At HuffPost, we believe that everyone needs high-quality journalism, but we understand that not everyone can afford to pay for expensive news subscriptions. That is why we are committed to providing deeply reported, carefully fact-checked news that is freely accessible to everyone.

Whether you come to HuffPost for updates on the 2024 presidential race, hard-hitting investigations into critical issues facing our country today, or trending stories that make you laugh, we appreciate you. The truth is, news costs money to produce, and we are proud that we have never put our stories behind an expensive paywall.

Would you join us to help keep our stories free for all? Your contribution of as little as $2 will go a long way.

As Americans head to the polls in 2024, the very future of our country is at stake. At HuffPost, we believe that a free press is critical to having well-informed voters. That’s why our journalism is free for everyone, even though other newsrooms retreat behind expensive paywalls.

We cannot do this without your help. Support our newsroom by contributing as little as $2 to keep our news free for all.

As Americans head to the polls in 2024, the very future of our country is at stake. At HuffPost, we believe that a free press is critical to creating well-informed voters. That’s why our journalism is free for everyone, even though other newsrooms retreat behind expensive paywalls.

Our journalists will continue to cover the twists and turns during this historic presidential election. With your help, we’ll bring you hard-hitting investigations, well-researched analysis and timely takes you can’t find elsewhere. Reporting in this current political climate is a responsibility we do not take lightly, and we thank you for your support.

Contribute as little as $2 to keep our news free for all.

Support HuffPost

>>> Read full article>>>
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source : The Huffington Post – https://www.huffpost.com/entry/first-humpback-whale-same-sex-photographed_n_65dfadfee4b0189a6a806028

Exit mobile version