Humpback Whale

The Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a species of baleen whale found in oceans worldwide. They are famous for their massive size, with adults reaching up to 52 feet in length and weighing up to 40 tons. Humpbacks are known for their spectacular acrobatic displays, including breaching—launching their bodies out of the water—and tail slapping. They also undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal, traveling thousands of miles between their cold-water feeding grounds and warm-water breeding grounds. But perhaps their most fascinating trait is their complex and haunting songs.

Male Humpbacks produce long, intricate vocalizations that can last for hours and travel for miles underwater. The purpose of these songs is not fully understood, but it is believed they are related to courtship rituals.

Humpback Whales feed on tiny crustaceans and small fish by a method called bubble-net feeding, a cooperative hunting technique unique to this species.