9 The humpback whale

CONNOR'S MISSION NOTES. THE HUMPBACK WHALE. * Latin name: Megaptera novaeangliae. * Animal type: Mammals一they breathe air, have warm blood, and give birth to live young. * Location: Worldwide, but usually nearer coasts. * Length: Up to 56 ft (17 m). * Weight: 37 tons (34 metric tons)一heavier than five African elephants! In the southern oceans, humpback feed mainly on Antarctic krill. Each whale has a unique pattern on the underside of its tail. The pectora! flippers of the humpback are one-third of its body length一longer than those of other whales.

Barnacles live on the whale's snout. The humpback has a pair of huge nostrils on the top of its head. These are called blowholes, and they close when the whales dive underwater. BEHAVIOR. * Every year, most humpbacks migrate to warm waters to give birth to their young. They swim thousands of miles. * Humpbacks live in groups called "pods," which include up to 15 whales. * An adult humpback can hold its breath underwater for 45 minutes—but usually stays under for 10–15 minutes before coming up for air. WHAT A TUNE! Male humpbacks make sounds known as whale songs. These calls can be heard by whales many miles away and last for up to 30 minutes. Scientists think they might be a way to attract females, to protect their territory, or to communicate with each other.