Humpback Whale

Humpback Whale

Megaptera novaeangliae

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a large baleen whale known for its distinctive body shape, long pectoral fins (up to one-third of its body length), and knobbly head. These migratory cetaceans are filter feeders, consuming krill and small schooling fish. They are also famous for their acrobatic surface behaviors like breaching and complex vocalizations, particularly the male's elaborate songs.

Max Length 18.6 m
Max Weight 43 t
Lifespan 45 - 100 years
Habitat Coastal zone, deep water, and open water
Depth Range 0 - 200 m
Diet Filter feeder
Activity Variable
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Humpback Whale

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Humpback Whale

Range

Where Humpback Whale has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Humpback Whale

Where can you see the Humpback Whale?

The Humpback Whale can be seen at 23 dive destinations in 7 countries. The best spots include Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Baja California Sur (Mexico), False Bay (South Africa), Lady Elliot Island (Australia), and Ningaloo reef (Australia).

What is the best time to see the Humpback Whale?

Sightings of the Humpback Whale peak at different times depending on the destination: Aliwal Shoal from June to October, Baja California Sur from November to March, False Bay from July to September, and Lady Elliot Island from June to October.

Where can you see the Humpback Whale in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Humpback Whale at Baja California Sur, Revillagigedo Islands, Socorro Islands, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres.

Where can you see the Humpback Whale in Australia?

In Australia, you can see the Humpback Whale at Lady Elliot Island, Ningaloo reef, Phillip Island, Great Barrier Reef, and Ribbon Reefs.

Where can you see the Humpback Whale in South Africa?

In South Africa, you can see the Humpback Whale at Aliwal Shoal, False Bay, Protea Banks, and Cape Town.

How big does the Humpback Whale get?

The Humpback Whale can reach up to 18.6 m in length and 43 t in weight.

What habitat does the Humpback Whale live in?

The Humpback Whale is found in these habitats: coastal zone, deep water, and open water.

How deep does the Humpback Whale live?

The Humpback Whale lives from the surface down to 200 m.

What does the Humpback Whale eat?

Strains plankton and tiny particles straight out of the water as it swims.

When is the Humpback Whale most active?

Its rhythm shifts with the season, the tide or the region, so the same species may be active by day in one place and by night in another.

How long does the Humpback Whale live?

The Humpback Whale lives 45 to 100 years.

What is the conservation status of the Humpback Whale?

The Humpback Whale is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

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