Whales

What is the playful behavior of whales with seaweed known as?

• Seaweeding

• Scratching

• Kelping

• Whaling

Which species of whales have been observed engaging in kelping?

• Beluga whales

• Gray whales, southern and northern right whales, and humpback whales

• Blue whales

• Orca whales

What are two reasons whales might engage in kelping?

• To prepare for migration and breeding

• To scratch an itch and flick away parasites

• For navigation and communication

• For hunting and sleeping

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.11-12.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Where has kelp play been documented?

• Europe and Asia

• Antarctica

• South America and Africa

• Australia, the United States and Canada

What technology has given us a new way of studying whale behavior with seaweed?

• Drones

• Satellites

• Underwater cameras

• Submarines

What do whales do with the seaweed during kelping?

• Balance it on their rostrum

• Build nests

• Eat it

• Hide from predators

What are the three criteria that define play in animal behavior?

• Voluntary and enjoyable, different to serious behaviors, animals seem stressed

• Involuntary, similar to serious behaviors, animals seem hungry

• Voluntary and enjoyable, exaggerated or incomplete, animals don't seem stressed or hungry

• Involuntary, exaggerated, animals seem stressed

What potential benefit does kelping have for whales beyond being playful?

• Increases their speed

• Reduces bacterial growth on their skin

• Improves their hearing

• Helps in hunting

What other marine mammals have shown similar self-medication behavior?

• Seals

• Red Sea dolphins

• Sharks

• Penguins

Why might whales engage in kelping according to the article?

• To communicate with other whales

• To prepare for migration

• To rid themselves of parasites and help with skin conditions

• To attract mates

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2