Assessment of the aerial behaviors of humpback whales, Megaptera novaeangliae (Borowski, 1781), in coastal areas in Northeastern Brazil

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the aerial behaviors of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Northeastern Brazil. From July to October 2013, 113 groups, totaling 272 individuals (x̄ = 2.41; ± 1.52), were observed, including possible double counts. Groups consisting of more than three individuals showed a significantly higher level of aerial behaviors (χ² = 0.03) and a more varied aerial behavioral repertoire (χ² = 0.00) compared to smaller groups. No significant differences in aerial behaviors were found in relation to month (χ² = 0.74), the presence of calves in groups (χ² = 0.14) or depth (χ² = 0.54). Long-term studies can provide valuable information about sociality in humpback whales since their communication system is not limited to sound and can differ according to the environment.