How I carved a humpback whale out of basswood

A simple carved of a basswood humpback whale.

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The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a species of baleen whale known for its acrobatic breaches, long pectoral fins, and complex songs. Here are some key facts about humpback whales:

Physical Characteristics

Size: 12–16 meters (39–52 feet) long

Weight: Up to 40 metric tons

Color: Dark gray or black with white patches on the belly and flippers

Distinct Features: Long pectoral fins (up to a third of their body length) and a knobby head with tubercles (hair follicles)


Habitat and Migration

Found in oceans worldwide, from polar to tropical waters

Undertake long migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers between feeding grounds in colder waters (summer) and breeding grounds in warmer waters (winter)


Diet and Feeding

Primarily eat krill, small fish, and plankton

Use bubble-net feeding, a cooperative hunting technique where they trap prey by blowing air bubbles


Behavior and Communication

Known for breaching (jumping out of the water) and slapping their fins or tails

Males sing complex whale songs, which can last for minutes to hours, likely for attracting mates or communicating


Conservation Status

Once severely threatened by commercial whaling, populations have rebounded due to protection under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and International Whaling Commission regulations

Still face threats from ship strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and climate change