Whale Watching at the Pearl Islands, Panama

Megaptera novaeangliae

The humpback whale or Megaptera novaeangliae is a familiar of baleen whale. Adults reach a length from 12 to 16 m (39 to 52 ft) and weigh about 36,000 kg (79,000 lb). This whale features a unique body shape, long pectoral fins and a knobbly head.

This species is known for breaching and other distinctive surface behaviors, making it popular with whale watchers. Males produce a complex song lasting 10 to 20 minutes, which they repeat for hours at a time. Its purpose is not clear, though it may have a role in mating.