Photo: NOAA United States. National Marine Fisheries Service · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The blue whale is the largest animal known to have ever existed, filtering enormous quantities of tiny krill from the ocean through baleen plates as it roams every ocean except the Arctic.
Appearance
It has a long, streamlined mottled blue-gray body, a broad flat head, and a small dorsal fin set far back near its tail.
Habitat & Distribution
The blue whale is found in ocean habitats.
Diet & Behavior
Diet: Carnivore — Meat-eating animals that hunt, scavenge, or fish for prey, ranging from big cats to snakes and birds of prey.
Blue whales usually travel alone or in small groups, communicate with some of the loudest sounds of any animal, and undertake long seasonal migrations between feeding and breeding grounds.
Predators
- Orca (occasionally, in packs)
Prey
- Krill
Interesting Facts
- 1
A blue whale's heart can weigh as much as a small car.
- 2
It can eat up to 4 tonnes of krill a day during feeding season.
- 3
Its calls can travel hundreds of kilometers underwater.
Gallery
Blue Whale FAQs
What does a blue whale eat?
The blue whale is a carnivore. Its diet includes krill.
Where does the blue whale live?
The blue whale is found in ocean habitats across north america and antarctica.
Is the blue whale endangered?
The blue whale has a conservation status of Endangered. Species facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
How long do blue whales live?
A blue whale's typical lifespan is 80–90 years in the wild.
How fast can a blue whale run?
The blue whale can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h.
How much does a blue whale weigh?
An adult blue whale typically weighs 100,000–150,000 kg.