The Largest Animal on Earth
The Blue Whale is the largest animal known to have ever existed on Earth, reaching lengths of up to 100 feet (30 meters) and weighing as much as 200 tons.
| Meaning | Named for its blue-gray color |
| Pronunciation | BLOO whayl |
| When: | Modern (extant species, evolved during the Late Miocene, about 5 million years ago) |
| Where: | Worldwide (oceans and seas) |
| What: | Cetacean Mammal (baleen whale) |
| Weight: | Up to 200 metric tons |
| Length: | Up to 30 meters (98 feet) |
| Diet: | Carnivorous (primarily krill) |
| Discovered: | Known to science since antiquity; scientific classification by Robert Sibbald in 1694 |
These magnificent creatures inhabit oceans worldwide, feeding primarily on tiny shrimp-like animals called krill, which they filter through baleen plates in their mouths.
Blue Whales are characterized by their long, streamlined bodies that are bluish-gray in color, with mottled skin patterns unique to each individual.
They are known for their deep, resonant vocalizations that can travel long distances underwater.
Despite their immense size, Blue Whales are gentle giants, moving through the water with grace and agility.
Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these endangered whales, as their populations have been significantly depleted due to historical whaling practices and threats like ship strikes and ocean noise pollution.