Long-finned baleen whale (Megaptera novaeangliae).
They live along all
major ocean coasts, sometimes swimming close inshore or even into
harbours and up rivers.
Humpbacks grow to 40–52 ft (12–16 m) long. They
are black above, with some white below, and have large knobs on the head
and jaws.
The humpback migrates between polar waters in summer and
tropical or subtropical breeding grounds in winter. It feeds on
shrimplike crustaceans, small fish, and plankton.
It is probably the
most vocal of all whales (with “songs” of 5–35 minutes) and one of the
most acrobatic (capable of turning a somersault).
Much reduced in number
by overhunting, humpbacks have been protected worldwide since the
1960s, and some populations seem to be increasing.
FYI .... these pictures were taken earlier this year off the shores of Virginia Beach.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely Beautiful
ReplyDeleteyou are amazing
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