Researchers off Australia's Gold Coast observed a humpback whale mother staying beside her presumed stillborn calf for hours, and possibly days. The whale kept close to the calf and maintained eye contact, in behavior the scientists described as resembling caregiving and nurturing.
The observation is rare, according to the researchers. While many animals show signs of distress after losing offspring, documented cases of whales lingering with dead calves are uncommon, and this sighting offers a detailed look at how a humpback mother might respond to a stillbirth.
The scientists noted that the mother's actions suggest a form of mourning, though they caution that interpreting animal emotions is difficult. The report adds to a small but growing body of evidence that whales may experience grief-like states.