Can you imagine having the chance to meet someone you admire, and discovering they’re just as eager to meet you? This is the incredible experience Adam Ernster, a whale aficionado, had while on an adventure in Baja, Mexico.
After years of observing whales from a distance, his aspiration to interact with these majestic creatures was fulfilled. It was not only a delight for him but also for Margarita the whale, who appeared to vocalize joyfully during their time together.
A video shared by Silver Shark Adventures captures an ecstatic Ernster as he strokes, embraces, and even plants kisses on a whale. In the clip, Ernster beams as he caresses Margarita, eventually moving in for an embrace and planting several kisses on her barnacled crown.
While the video is touching, an alternative angle shared on Reddit includes the whale’s vocalizations during the interaction, resembling what might be termed a “cetacean purr.”
The National Ocean Service (NOS) notes that whales vocalize for reasons such as communication, foraging, and locating each other. Furthermore, research published in The Journal of Experimental Biology by marine biologist Sam Ridgway notes that dolphins and beluga whales emit “victory squeals,” akin to jubilant sounds when content.
In the videos of the whale watching, Margarita appears to relish the attention so much that she returns for more affection from Ernster. The man is noticeably moved during his subsequent interaction with the whale, as he cherishes the moment to reconnect and bid farewell.
Ernster, skilled in filming whales, chronicled this special encounter in an extended video he posted on YouTube.
He also expressed gratitude for the chance to share his passion for whales with the world. He believes that increasing public awareness of their gentle nature and beauty is vital for the welfare of these animals and the conservation of their environments.
View this post on Instagram
Whale making sounds of joy
byu/user678990655 ininterestingasfuck
