A humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) surges from the frigid waters of Juneau, Alaska, sending shimmering arcs of seawater into the air. Breaching is a striking yet still mysterious behavior—scientists suggest it may serve to communicate with distant companions, dislodge parasites, assert dominance, or simply indulge in exuberant play. The sheer power and grace required to launch such a massive body from the ocean’s surface is a testament to the whale’s strength and agility.