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Science & Nature • Marine Mammal

Humpback Whale

The humpback whale (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) is a large baleen whale found in oceans around the world.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The humpback whale (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) is a large baleen whale found in oceans around the world. It is known for its long pectoral fins, complex songs, and long migrations between feeding and breeding areas. The species is listed as Least Concern globally, with populations generally increasing.

Description

Humpback whales are large, dark-backed whales with pale undersides, distinctive throat pleats, and unusually long flippers. Their scientific name refers to these wing-like fins.

Behaviour and feeding

Humpbacks feed mainly on krill and small fish, often using coordinated methods such as bubble-net feeding. They are also known for breaching and for complex vocalisations called songs.

Range and migration

The species occurs in oceans worldwide and is strongly associated with seasonal migration. Many populations travel long distances between polar feeding areas and tropical or subtropical breeding grounds.

Conservation

Global population levels have improved since commercial whaling was restricted, and the species is now listed as Least Concern. However, some regional populations remain vulnerable and face ongoing human-related threats.

Key facts

  • Humpback whales are baleen whales, meaning they filter food through baleen plates rather than using teeth.
  • They are recognizable by very long pectoral fins and a small hump in front of the dorsal fin.
  • Humpbacks are known for elaborate songs, especially during the breeding season.
  • They make seasonal migrations between high-latitude feeding grounds and lower-latitude breeding grounds.
  • Commercial whaling greatly reduced their numbers, but many populations have recovered.
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Canadian context

Humpback whales are regularly seen along Canada’s Pacific and Atlantic coasts, including in waters used for whale watching and marine research.

Frequently asked questions

What is the scientific name of the humpback whale?
The scientific name is *Megaptera novaeangliae*.
Is the humpback whale endangered?
Globally, no. The IUCN lists it as Least Concern, although some local populations are still at risk.
What do humpback whales eat?
They mainly eat krill, small fish, and plankton using baleen to filter food from water.
Where do humpback whales live?
They occur in all major oceans and are found in both nearshore and offshore waters.
Why are they called humpback whales?
The name refers to the hump visible in front of the dorsal fin and the arched shape of the back when diving.
What are humpback whales known for?
They are known for long migrations, breaching, bubble-net feeding, and complex songs.

References

  1. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/humpback-whale
    Supports: Scientific name, global range, size, diet, conservation status, threats
  2. PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/humpback-whale-fact-sheet/
    Supports: Species identity, family, size, conservation status, estimated mature individuals
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/humpback-whale
    Supports: Species classification, size, songs, general description
  4. International Whaling Commission — https://iwc.int/about-whales/whale-species/humpback-whale
    Supports: Worldwide occurrence, habitat preference, whale-watching relevance, conservation context
  5. NSW Environment and Heritage — https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/marine-mammals/whales/humpback-whale
    Supports: Baleen feeding, baleen plates, diet, recognizability
  6. The Marine Mammal Center — https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/animal-care/learn-about-marine-mammals/cetaceans/humpback-whale
    Supports: Name origin, flipper length, physical description, size