Humpback Whale

The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a species of baleen whale. One of the larger rorqual species, adults range in length from 12–16 m (39–52 ft) and weigh about 36,000 kg (79,000 lb). The humpback has a distinctive body shape, with long pectoral fins and a knobbly head. It is known for breaching and other distinctive surface behaviors, making it popular with whale watchers.

Males produce a complex song lasting 10 to 20 minutes, which they repeat for hours at a time. Its purpose is not clear, though it may have a role in mating. Different groups of Humpback Whales may migrate from Antartica to Pacific Oeans, Atlantic/Indian Oceans and they may have different songs but when they are gather at Antartica, they may incorporates notes of songs from other group of Whales to their own songs.

An interesting fun fact about Humpbacks around the world, the whales when migrating whether from Artic (Northern Hemisphere) or Antartica (Southern Hemisphere), do not cross the Equator, so it seems they do not meet each other.

This sighting of Humpback Whales was over at the Eastern Cape of South Africa during the season of Sardine Run.