Our knowledge about the social bonds of the humpbacks is not yet distinctive. We assume that most of the bonds are only short term – the longest and most intense bond being between mother and calf, since they are inseparable for at least a year. There are assumptions of a deeper complexity which deserve study. Males could cooperate, as well as compete, with each other. For example, in their breeding grounds they compete for the best place next to a receptive female. Most of the humpbacks are hunting and feeding on their own, but about 25% get together in pods and cooperate in the foraging, though they may travel alone the rest of the year.

This behavior can be observed by all baleen whales, however the humpback whales are considered to be the acrobats in the family. They screw their body to two thirds or more out of the water, like turning on their own axle. With their powerful fluke they only need a few beats to screw themselves out of the water. One can observe such jumps mainly in the breeding areas, also in the waters of Hawaii! Therefore, it is assumed that this is a breeding behavior. Scientists also suppose this is a way to communicate or to get rid of parasites. No matter why they do it, it is an overwhelming spectacle!