A humpback whale, one of the most magnificent whale species. Humpbacks are known for their intelligence, playfulness and elaborate vocalizations.See more pictures of whales.
Modern whales have wide tail flukes, extended flippers and, in some species, dorsal fins. Whales swim forward by flexing their tails up and down, instead of side to side as with most fish. To change direction, they move their flippers, similar to the way an airplane steers (read How Sharks Work for details). The dorsal fins, if present, serve to stabilize the whale's body as it swims.
Photo courtesy NOAAA humpback whale's tail fluke extends as it dives under the ocean surface. Whale researchers can track and identify individual whales based on distinctive tail markings.
Modern whales have wide tail flukes, extended flippers and, in some species, dorsal fins. Whales swim forward by flexing their tails up and down, instead of side to side as with most fish. To change direction, they move their flippers, similar to the way an airplane steers (read How Sharks Work for details). The dorsal fins, if present, serve to stabilize the whale's body as it swims.
Photo courtesy NOAAA humpback whale's tail fluke extends as it dives under the ocean surface. Whale researchers can track and identify individual whales based on distinctive tail markings.
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