Their family structure and social behavior is much like ours, and she believes that once people can understand them, they will work harder to save them. Sitting in a tiny inflatable 6 person boat, also called a Zodiac, while looking for a 40 ton whale is a mind-blowing experience. I couldn't help but think what would happen if the whale decided to surface from under our boat. Dina explained that humpbacks do not use sonar to detect objects in the water like orcas do, therefore, it is sometimes difficult for a humpback to be able to sense your presence. When she saw my concerned look she explained that this is why she is lightly tapping the side of the boat.
Sound travels very far in water and only a slight tap was enough to warn the whale of our presence.
Dina explained all sorts of interesting facts to me. For example, humpbacks are about 40 feet long, weigh 40 tons and live about 40 years. The humpbacks come to Glacier Bay each year from Hawaii and Mexico. Back on shore, I caught up with my Dad.