People Keep Filming Humpback Whales ‘Gaping’ in the Wild. Heres What's Actually Happening.
By Luis Prada
Published on May 6, 2026.
Scientists are trying to discover why humpback whales are engaging in a rare behavior known as "gaping", which occurs when they open their mouths wide, even when there is nothing to eat. The behavior has been observed by whale-watching tourists and researchers, who have identified 66 cases so far. The researchers believe it may be a social display or a form of communication. They are unsure if this behavior is new, as it has since rebounded with the rise of whale tourism and the widespread distribution of cameras. However, the researchers have noted that smartphones are helping them discover the significance of this behavior.
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