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Behind The Lens: Whale Whispers – A Dance with the Giants of Dominica – Photos and text by Amos Nachoum, Big Animals Global Expeditions
As the boat's crew shouted ea- gerly, I adjusted my mask and fins and plunged into the warm, crystal- clear waters off Dominica. Mo- ments after surfacing, I lifted my head to locate the approaching sperm whales. The skipper, having detected their clicking communica- tions through a hydrophone, signaled they were near. The
converged in a lotus formation, their clicks intensifying into what seemed a familial dialogue. With awe, I witnessed this intimate ritual, though the depth blurred my vision for a clear photo. Driven by the rarity of the moment, I took a deep breath and dove towards them, descending slowly to 20 feet where I paused to observe. The whales' conversation grew louder as I ventured further, reaching 30 feet. Carefully equal- izing, I pushed to 40 feet, camera in hand, capturing three precious frames of their touching exchange before my lungs
crew's shouts intensified, directing me left as I submerged into a world transformed by the rhythmic clicks of these majestic creatures. I remained motionless, entranced by the alien symphony that surrounded me, feeling as though I was floating in space alongside them. The silence that followed was profound, and in that hush, shadows materialized before me. A pod of five or six sperm whales glided gracefully toward me, aligned in perfect for- mation. I edged right, careful to avoid disturb- ing their path. It was a poignant reminder that these creatures, the largest carnivorous ani-
beckoned for air. Surfacing, gasping, and invigorated, I was overwhelmed by grat- itude for the natural world's gift—a glimpse into the profound connections within a whale family. This encounter, where I swam alongside the gentle giants of the deep, listening to their private symphony, was not just an adventure but a profound reminder of the intricate lives unfolding beneath the waves. The sperm whale, previously endan- gered but now numbering between 250,000 and 300,000 thanks to interna-
Sperm Whales of Dominica
mals on the planet, move with such gentle and warm regard for one another. Once the whales passed, I followed, mes- merized by the gentle sway of their tails. At times I drew closer; at others, they outpaced me with their effortless power. Despite losing them briefly, I persevered in their direction and soon rediscovered them idling just ahead, breaking the surface quietly. I paused, floating silently to avoid startling them, ab- sorbing the slowed cadence of their clicks. The pod then began a synchronized dive—one by one, the adults first, fol- lowed by the smallest. As they gathered below, their heads
tional conservation efforts, showcases nature’s resilience. Their remarkable recovery since the 1986 commercial whaling ban underscores the strength of their tight family bonds and cooperative behaviors—traits that have played a critical role in their comeback. These experiences underscore the essence
of wildlife photography: the intersection of en- durance, precise timing, and a profound respect for the natural world. It's a reminder of how in- spiring and precious wilderness is when we ap- proach it with respect and patience.
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