A talented photographer captured the rare scene of a pod of ten 40 ft long sperm whales sleeping vertically
Franco Banfi caught the amazing marine animals about 65ft underwater off the coast of Dominica in the Caribbean.
The sperm whales, who are known to be social animals, typically nap vertically for around 6 to 25 minutes at a time.
This behavior was first documented in 2008, and after further studies, it was discovered that they nap in short intervals for around 7 percent of their life.
“This was a group of around ten sperm whales all sleeping together”, said Mr Banfi.
“I don’t know why they sleep vertically, maybe because they can use the sonar they have in their head to sense any danger approaching.“
“I was very lucky to see such a great moment in nature, and I’m thankful the whales trusted me and gave me the opportunity to attend the show.”
“It doesn’t happen like that every time you see them.“
Check out more of Franco Banfi’s work on his Instagram.