Whale

Whales

Whales are amazing animals that live in the ocean. They are part of a group called cetaceans, which also includes dolphins and porpoises. Whales come in many sizes, but the blue whale is the biggest animal that has ever lived!

Some whales, like the humpback whale, eat tiny sea creatures called krill and plankton using special plates in their mouths called baleen. Other whales, like the sperm whale, have teeth and eat fish and squid. All whales need to come up to the surface to breathe air through holes on the top of their heads.

People used to hunt whales, but now there are rules to protect them. Whales can still get hurt if they get stuck in fishing nets or if the water is polluted. Many people love to watch whales in the ocean, and it has become a fun activity to see them swim and play.

The word “whale” comes from the Old English word for a large sea fish. It is not related to the country of Wales. Sometimes people use “whale” to talk about animals like the orca, which is also called a killer whale, and the melon-headed whale. Whales are very smart and can sing, click, and communicate with each other. They give birth to live babies and take care of them with rich milk.

Whales are wonderful friends of the sea, and we all help keep them safe.