Humpback whales have a unique feeding behavior called bubble-net feeding. They form groups and create patterns on the water’s surface to catch their prey, such as salmon, krill, or herring.

By exhaling bubbles that confuse the fish, they create a net-like structure. Then, one whale signals for feeding, and all the whales open their mouths to catch the fish.

This choreographed behavior is learned and not all groups of humpback whales participate in it. It was first observed in 1929 and initially dismissed as play, but scientists now believe it developed due to food scarcity.

This cooperative hunting technique ensures that all whales get the nutrients they need.