Humpback Whales: Unlocking the Secrets of These Majestic Giants
Size, Weight, and Appearance
Humpback whales are colossal creatures, weighing an astounding 40-100 tons (80,000-200,000 pounds) and measuring up to 146-19 meters (48-62 feet) in length. Their unique appearance sets them apart, with long pectoral fins and a distinctive hump on their dorsal region.
Diet and Habitat
Humpback whales are baleen whales, meaning they feed by straining krill and small fish through baleen plates in their mouths. Their diet varies depending on location, but they primarily inhabit coastal waters during feeding seasons.
Breeding Behavior
Humpback whales are known for their elaborate courtship rituals, including breaches, flipper slapping, and underwater singing. Breeding takes place in warm waters during the winter, and calves are born after a gestation period of 10-11 months.
Lifespan and Threats
Humpback whales have an average lifespan of 40-50 years. However, they face numerous threats, including entanglement in fishing gear, ship strikes, and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent creatures.
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