Whale breaching
Flora and Fauna

Humpback Whales #AtoZChallenge

June through September is Humpback Whale season in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador.  They migrate from Antarctica, 16,000 kilometers (almost 10,000 miles) away. While in the warm equatorial waters, the whales fast, focused on mating and birthing.

Whales are seen breaching in the distance from shore.  For a closer view, take a whale watching boat from Puerto Lopez.  A whale might breach near your boat.

Whale breaching in distance
Breaching Humpback Whale
Puerto Lopez, Ecuador

Most likely, you will see some tail slapping.

Whale tail
Tail about to slap the water, creating a big splash
Puerto Lopez, Ecuador
It is incredible to watch a 16 meter (52 foot) whale swim under your boat. I am completely in awe and feel insignificant every time.
Mothers give birth in shallow waters. Babies and mothers are often seen close to shore swimming together.
Whales swimming with calf
Adults swimming with calves
Puerto Lopez, Ecuador

Once the calves are strong enough, they leave for Antarctica to feed and grow. We wait for them to return in June.

2017 A to Z Challenge - H
If you are visiting from the #AtoZChallenge please include a link to your blog in your comment so I can check it out.

I am a US Expat in Ecuador. I grew up on a Minnesota farm, worked in IT in California's Silicon Valley, then moved to a coastal Ecuador fishing village. My goal is to share Ecuador with you, one snippet at a time. Topics include attractions, compassion, ecotourism, Ecuador products, everyday Ecuador, and flora and fauna. Please let me know what you would like to read more about!

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