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2017 Wildlife Photo Contest

Southern Humpback Whale, Ha' Apai, Tonga
Eye Contact with TT

Species: Southern Humpback Whale | Location: Ha' Apai, Tonga

By John Van Den Hende

It is said if you are fortunate enough to ever look a whale in the eye, it will change your life. My wife and I had such fortune on this encounter with a humpback calf in Tonga. Mom was kind enough to let us babysit while she napped below us. This calf was fondly called "TT" because of the T-shaped scars on its side.

About The Photographer

Cropped nathab profile john
My wife and I try to convey through images the way our hearts are touched by the people, cultures, and nature we encounter throughout the world. We hope to make good art in the process and inspire others to do the same.
Check out John’s photography website: 3etravelphotography.com
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WWF & Natural Habitat Adventures. Discovering Our Planet Together.

Since 2003, Natural Habitat Adventures has partnered with World Wildlife Fund, the world’s leading environmental conservation organization, to offer conservation travel—sustainable travel that supports the protection of nature and wildlife. Nat Hab has provided more than $4 million to WWF and will continue to give 1 percent of gross sales plus $150,000 annually through 2023 in support of WWF’s mission to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth.

Learn more about the Nat Hab/WWF partnership.