[imagesource:pixnio]

Whales seem to like a bit of dress-up, and scientists have been curious after observing more than 100 whales wearing hats made of kelp.

The strange habit seems to be common among whales from most species, including humpbacks, and southern and northern right whales. But the experts seemed to have figured out why.

Previous studies have noted that whales sometimes ‘play’ with ocean plants, but these were considered rare and only in places where the kelp and whales were both common. A research team has now conducted a study across a wider region, using drones to capture aerial footage of the massive creatures playing with the ocean’s flora.

‘Kelping’ footage from all across the globe has also shown that this is a worldwide phenomenon. The collected footage shows that whales would often seek out kelp fields and then play in them for hours on end. Studying this footage, the research team have come up with two conclusions.

Image: Slater Moore/Awesome Ocean

The most logical answer is that whales play with the seaweed simply for fun because it feels good on their skin. Barnacles and lice attach themselves to these sea creatures and as kelp is a very tough marine plant, it can be used to brush off these annoying critters.

The seaweed also has antibacterial properties, so it helps to reduce bacterial growth on their skin. Several whales have sensory hairs around their jaws and heads and whirling through the kelp creates a tickling sensation that might be as soothing for them as a gentle massage.

Another rather unexpected form of behaviour was observed in which several whales would coordinate to lift large patches of seaweed together. Scientists believe this is a ‘bonding experience’ and helps the whales practice their coordination and strengthen social bonds.

Olaf Meynecke, lead author of the study, says “This is all about coordination, mobility, and just having fun with their ‘friends'”.

“Researchers have observed over 100 whales wearing hats made of kelp and seaweed. Humpback, gray, southern, and northern right whales have all been seen playing dress up with the marine plants.”https://t.co/COXNbBGH96

— OceanX (@oceanx) October 3, 2023

The more we study our ocean friends, the more we realise how ‘human’ they can be. Sometimes whales just want to have fun.

[source:explorersweb]