In humpback social groups, different whales assume different roles. The names adopted for these roles differ somewhat throughout the world. The basic roles are fairly easy to understand.
Cows are female humpback whales.
Since most humpback behaviors seen in the Hawaiian islands are thought to be related to courtship and mating, it is not surprising that cows are the focus for humpback socialization in Hawaii. A calf relies on its mother for nourishment, protection and, perhaps, guidance. For many years the third whale was assumed to be another adult female, helping the mother to raise her calf. In fact, this third whale is usually a male and is probably interested in mating with the mother rather than raising the calf. Adult male whales are referred to as escorts when in the company of other whales, especially a female.