That’s Wild: Humpback Whales Enjoy a Body Scrub

If you love a spa day, you’re in very good (and very big) company. Scientists have observed what they say is a global phenomenon of humpback whales rolling around in seaweed. It’s likely a form of play... and what may be the equivalent of a skincare routine for these 50-foot marine mammals. The behavior is called kelping, and it’s thought to improve whale health by removing parasites and bacteria. In a new study, researchers examined social media posts documenting kelping in humpback whales from the North Atlantic all the way to the Australian coast. Featured in Endangered Earth Online (Nov. 16, 2032): https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/publications/earthonline/endangered-earth-online-no1219.html 📹 Used with permission by Slater Moore Photography and Davey's Locker Sportfishing and Whale Watching #ThatsWild #humpbackwhales #cetaceans #kelping ------------ About the Center: The Center for Biological Diversity is a 501c3 nonprofit headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. At the Center, we believe that the welfare of human beings is deeply linked to nature — to the existence in our world of a vast diversity of wild animals and plants. Because diversity has intrinsic value, and because its loss impoverishes society, we work to secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction. We do so through science, law and creative media, with a focus on protecting the lands, waters and climate that species need to survive. We want those who come after us to inherit a world where the wild is still alive. Where to find us: WEBSITE: https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/centerforbiodiv FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/centerforbiodiv INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/centerforbiodiv TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@centerforbiodiv/ TAKE ACTION: https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/action/ For questions or media inquiries, email us at center@biologicaldiversity.org.

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