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Whale Encyclopedia

Discover the magnificent cetaceans of our oceans

Humpback Whale

Photo: Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=594115

Least Concern

Humpback Whale

M. novaeangliae

About This Species

Distinctive medium-sized whale reaching 14-17m (46-56ft) and up to 40 tons, famous for extremely long pectoral fins, complex songs, and spectacular breaching behavior. Found in all oceans with extensive migrations between polar feeding and tropical breeding areas. Notable conservation success story with population recovery from near extinction to approximately 135,000 individuals worldwide.

Size

14-17m

Weight

up to 40 tons