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Scientists have successfully photographed two male humpback whales participating in sexual activity for the first time. This suggests the possibility of homosexuality among these sea creatures.
Scientists have extensively researched humpback whales for many years; they are among the biggest creatures on the planet, reaching lengths of up to 18m (60ft) and weighing over 36 tons.
Scientists say that although their sexual conduct takes place primarily underwater at depths of a few feet, it has not been thoroughly documented.
Previous studies have shown that they use the summer months to feed in polar regions, and migrate to warmer tropical waters during winter. During this time, their behaviors tend to be linked to the process of reproduction.
Recently, researchers have observed the occurrence of sexual behavior between two male humpback whales, marking the first recorded instance of such behavior.
Two adult male humpback whales seen off Maui, Hawaiʻi, on 19 January, 2022
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Same-sex sexual behavior is observed in various animal species, particularly in marine mammals such as walruses, gray seals, and Amazon river dolphins.
Recent studies have observed homosexual actions between a mature humpback whale, who seemed to be in poor health, and a youthful and robust male whale.
The threat of starvation looms for polar bears as a result of the effects of global warming.
In January 2022, a private boat came across two humpback whales about 2km west of the Molokini crater near Maui, Hawaii. The observation was a fortunate occurrence.
Researchers were able to observe as the whales gradually neared the surface of the water near the boat.
According to scientists, a whale (referred to as Whale A) that seemed to be older than the others had a unique brown color on its body. It also appeared to be very thin and infested with whale lice.
In January 2022, two fully-grown male humpback whales were observed off the coast of Maui, Hawaii. During this sighting, Whale A had its penis inserted into the genital opening of Whale B.
“Lyle Krannichfeld and Brandi Romano collaborated on a project published in the Marine Mammal Science journal.”
Scientists observed the whales engaging in social behavior as they swam around the boat in a circular motion multiple times.
Researchers noted that during the encounter, the second whale (known as Whale B) consistently maintained an extruded penis. It repeatedly approached the older whale from behind and used its pectoral fins to hold it in place while penetrating it.
The scientists stated that Whale B’s penis was consistently protruding during the entire encounter and occasionally entered the genital opening of Whale A, with the assistance of its pectoral fins.
The researchers noted that this is the first recorded instance of a male humpback whale engaging in sexual penetration with another male whale. In addition, they observed a concerning situation where a wounded and sick whale was being penetrated by a seemingly healthy and robust one.
More information is needed about these sexual experiences, prompting researchers to urge additional investigation into the “reasons, consequences, and possible influences” behind these interactions.
Source: independent.co.uk
