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Description

The humpback whale is a species of baleen whale, meaning its teeth are replaced by baleen plates. These plates allow Humpbacks to filter-feed on plankton and microscopic crustaceans by drawing large volumes of water into their mouths and sieving it through the baleen. Humpback whales are found throughout the world's oceans, undertaking the longest known migration of any mammal as they move seasonally between polar feeding grounds in the summer and tropical breeding grounds in the winter. Females with calves may form temporary groups, while males are typically solitary. During the mating season, males follow receptive females and guard them from rival males. Humpbacks, especially solitary males, communicate over vast distances using complex vocalizations known as whale songs. Humpbacks are known for their acrobatic displays, often leaping out of the water, sometimes entirely. When close to the surface, they frequently display their tail flukes, which bear unique patterns that allow individual identification.