Lockdown may have curbed the movement of humans, but some lucky locals still get to enjoy the scenery. Grootbos Nature Reserve welcomed some adorable new visitors recently, as a pod of southern right whales magnificently announced their presence in the area.
In a video captured by the reserve, the stunning creatures can be seen leaping out of the water and splashing about in Walker Bay.
Every year, hundreds of southern right whales migrate from the icy Antarctic to the warm waters of Walker Bay to mate, calve and raise their young. The whales can be spotted here every year between June and December, and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Southern right whales are marvels to witness. At an average length of 13 to 15 meters long for males and 16 meters for females, they are among the largest whale species, according to Greenpeace. They typically weigh about 40 tonnes each.
These calm creatures can live up to 100 years old, and communicate by jumping and splashing their fins in the water.
Unfortunately, southern right whales are affected by the industrial fishing industry. Greenpeace reports that fishing techniques can cause a degrading impact on the ecosystems these whales live in.
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Grootbos is a 5-star luxury eco-reserve close to the Southern tip of Africa. It houses 2500 hectares of wilderness, 100 endangered plant species and 800 plant species of which six were newly discovered there. The reserve is perfectly positioned for witnessing the giants of the deep in Walker Bay, and offers a number of viewing options for the public.
For more information, visit the Grootbos website.
Picture: Instagram/ Grootbos