This Close-Up Footage Of Humpback Whale Swimming With Her Baby Is Awe-Striking

Found in oceans and seas around the world, humpback whales typically migrate up to 16,000 miles each year. Humpbacks feed in polar waters, and migrate to tropical or subtropical waters to breed and give birth when they fast and live off their fat reserves. Their diet consists mostly of krill and small fish. Humpbacks have a diverse repertoire of feeding methods, including the bubble net technique.

Like other large whales, the humpback was a target for the whaling industry. Once hunted to the brink of extinction, its population fell by an estimated 90% before a 1966 moratorium. While stocks have partially recovered, entanglement in fishing gear, collisions with ships and noise pollution continue to impact the population of 80,000.

In the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean off the Tonga coast, a baby whale swam straight towards this scuba diver. As it did, he realized to his horror that he was in danger as he was now inadvertently between the baby whale and its massive 15 meter, 35 ton mother. Luckily, he managed to escape unharmed, but did manage to capture footage of the incredible up-close encounter.

The only thing more amazing than humpback whales is the fact that they are as curious about you as you are about them. And while you are making a new friend in the sea, be careful if their mom is near and she doesn’t seem to like you!

Watch this awesome experience caught up on camera by one very lucky scuba diver!