Most people know Blue whales are the largest animals in history. However, their true scale is almost impossible to imagine without help. For instance, they grow far larger than any dinosaur ever did. Furthermore, these gentle giants have roamed the oceans for millions of years. Consequently, their biology is full of mind-blowing statistics. Therefore, prepare to feel very small as you learn about these marine titans. You will definitely respect them more.
Blue whales
Blue whales are the largest animals to ever live. In fact, they grow larger than the biggest dinosaurs. They can reach lengths of over 100 feet.
Their heart is truly massive. It is roughly the size of a small bumper car. Consequently, you could likely hug it with both arms.
Surprisingly, their tongue weighs as much as an elephant. It can weigh approximately 6,000 pounds. This heavy muscle helps them manage massive mouthfuls of water.
They are the loudest animals on Earth. Their calls reach 188 decibels, which is louder than a jet engine. Thus, they communicate over hundreds of miles.
A baby calf grows incredibly fast. Specifically, it gains about 200 pounds every single day. It drinks 50 to 100 gallons of milk daily.
Despite their size, they eat tiny shrimp called krill. A single whale eats up to 4 tons of krill per day. They are always hungry.
Scientists can tell their age by their earwax. Like tree rings, the wax builds up in layers over time. This reveals their life history.
Interestingly, they are not actually blue. Their skin is a mottled gray color. However, they look blue when they are underwater.
Their heartbeat is detectable from two miles away. Because the heart is so powerful, sensitive equipment hears it from a distance.
Uniquely, they have two blowholes. While other whales have one, Blue whales have a twin set. This helps them breathe huge amounts of air.
They are conscious breathers. Therefore, they never fall fully asleep. Instead, they rest only half of their brain at a time.
Their mouth holds a massive volume of water. When expanded, it holds 90 tons of food and water. This is heavier than the whale itself.
The scientific name carries a hidden joke. Balaenoptera musculus likely means “little mouse whale” in Latin. Linnaeus probably loved the irony.
They migrate for thousands of miles. Typically, they travel between cold feeding grounds and warm breeding waters. They fast for months during this trip.
Finally, they live a very long time. Scientists believe they live 80 to 90 years. The oldest recorded one was 110.
