Humpback Whale, Chatham Strait

Photograph by Coy Aune

A humpback whale breaches in Chatham Strait just off of Baranof Island, Alaska. Weighing up to 50 tons and reaching lengths of 50 feet these whales display incredible beauty and power. This monster of the deep will soon start its winter migration to the warmer waters of Hawaii. The journey will last six to eight weeks.

This photo and caption were submitted to the 2009 International Photo Contest . See photo galleries , play jigsaw puzzles , and download wallpaper .