‘In the Wake of Whales’: New humpback whale film reveals epic journey, urgent science

Breathtaking footage of humpback whales is part of a new 12-minute video released in partnership between the Marine Mammal Research Program (MMRP) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and Dolphin Quest, in celebration of World Ocean Day (June 8). “In the Wake of Whales” follows UH scientists as they study and monitor the annual migration of humpback whales from Alaska to Hawaiʻi.

The video offers fascinating insights into one of nature’s most remarkable journeys—when thousands of whales travel nearly 3,000 miles to Hawaiʻi each year to give birth. Among the many facts shared: pregnant females do not eat during the journey, relying entirely on their fat reserves; and a single pregnancy costs a mother about 22 million calories, including 97 pounds of fetal growth per day in the final months.

“Understanding the biology and behavior of humpback whales is essential, especially now as changing ocean conditions threatens their habitats and migratory patterns,” said MMRP Director Lars Bejder. “This video helps explain how their endurance and sacrifices are truly extraordinary.”

Whale tails, whale tales

The video features researchers documenting whale behaviors, collecting data and photographing the flukes of individual whales. These unique tail markings act as IDs and are uploaded to Happy Whale, a global database available to scientists and the public. With more than 10,000 whales cataloged—representing about 80% of the estimated 12,000 whales that migrate to Hawaiʻi—MMRP’s collection is the largest in the world.

“Dolphin Quest is honored to support this research and help share it with the public,” said Dolphin Quest Co-Founder Rae Stone. “This project combines the best of science, education and conservation—and makes it accessible for everyone.”

MMRP operates from the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology on Moku o Loʻe in Kāneʻohe Bay and has been focused on humpback whale research for the past five years, in strategic collaboration with the Alaska Whale Foundation. This work has helped illuminate how changing ocean conditions and increased marine heatwaves may be affecting whale health, reproduction and migration.

Dolphin Quest, founded in 1988, has locations on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi and Bermuda. Its mission is “to protect marine animals and their environments through experiential learning and scientific discovery.” Learn more about their worldwide conservation impact.

The video aims to inspire and educate viewers of all ages on the importance of protecting humpback whales. At the end of the film, a QR code invites viewers to support ongoing research and conservation efforts. Visit the MMRP website to support marine mammal research.