Whales: Characteristics and Conservation

Whales are large marine mammals found in oceans globally, ranging from tropical to polar waters. As warm-blooded animals, they breathe air through blowholes and utilize a thick layer of blubber for insulation and energy storage during migrations.

These mammals are categorized into two primary groups: baleen whales, such as blue and humpback whales, which filter small organisms like krill through baleen plates, and toothed whales, including orcas and sperm whales, which hunt prey using teeth and echolocation.

While species like the blue whale can exceed one hundred tonnes in weight, they often rely on tiny crustaceans for food. Many species engage in long-distance migrations and communicate through complex vocalizations, including songs and clicks. Despite conservation efforts, whales continue to face threats from commercial hunting history, fishing gear, ship collisions, underwater noise, and pollution.