The Whales are returning to Hermanus for their annual breeding season, right on time! These are some of the whales that can be spotted.
The various whales that visit Hermanus during breeding season start making their way to the shores between May and July, spending time meeting up, mating and eventually giving birth to their calves.
Recently the Hermanus Whales Facebook Page shared a video of the first two Southern Right Whales making an appearance in the popular bay. They can be seen splashing around in the foamy ocean, bring much joy and hope for another successful season.
There are three kinds of whales that can be spotted in the whale-watching hotspot. The Southern Right, the Humpback and the Bryde’s Whale. They come to the bay to calve during the colder months and then start mating again in the warmer months before setting off again.
This is what you need to know about each species.
The Southern Right Whale
The best time to spot them is between July and November. You can distinguish the Southern Right by the calluses on its head, its broad back without a dorsal fin and a long, arching mouth that begins above the eye.
The females start calving in August and September. In October, the males arrive for the mating season. This is when the population is at its highest and the best time to go whale watching.
The Humpback Whale
The best time to spot them is between June and September. However, they are just passing through on their way to the Indian Ocean, where they favour warmer waters for breeding.
You can distinguish the Humpback by its distinctive body shape and long pectoral fins. They are very curious in nature and will often swim right up to whale-watching boats for a polite hello.
The Bryde’s Whale
The best time to spot them is all year round. They often pop up for a visit to the bay and can be distinguished by their grey colouring and white bellies.
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You can watch the first Southern Rights make their debut below.
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