10 Fun Facts About Blue Whales

It is time for another season of whale watching. For veteran watchers, there is little that changes from year to year, but if whale migration California 2022 is your first viewing season, you might want to learn a bit about the swimming blue giants you will be looking for.

Blue whales are among some of the most magnificent animals on the planet. Before you go out on your first whale watching voyage, it is worth learning a bit about these gentle behemoths.

Blue Whale Anatomy

When comparing a blue whale vs grey whale, you will quickly notice the size difference. Blue whales are the largest animals in the world, and according to experts, they are the largest animal ever. The longest blue whale stretched about 108 ft, about three bus lengths. 

Additionally, blue whales can weigh more than 150 tons or 300,000 lbs. The heaviest blue whales can top 441,000 lbs. or 220 tons.

With such a large body, it should not come as a shock that blue whales have exceptionally large hearts. A whale heart can be as big as an average bumper car and weigh more than 400 lbs. The animal’s gigantic heart beats slowly, only about two beats per minute. 

Behavior & More

Blue whales like to swim alone, but they can often be found in pairs. However, the whales partake in massive migrations to polar waters in the warmer months. 

While it is natural to fear large animals, blue whales have no interest in people, especially as a food source. The animals feed on krill, which live near the bottom of oceans. Whales essentially scoop the water with krill and strain vast volumes of water through their baleen plates.

Watching a whale feed is intimidating, but the animals are known for their relatively docile nature. Many consider whales to be gentle giants.

Blue Whale July Migration

If you come for whale watching in San Diego in July, you may get to see a blue whale in person as the animals embark on their 4,000-mile journey to colder waters. Blue whales will make the reverse migration in the fall to their mating grounds.

Other Interesting Facts

There is so much to learn about blue whales, more than can fit in a small article. Still, some of the most amazing facts include:

1. Blue whales are the largest animals ever.
2. Every blue whale has unique markings.
3. Blue whales have the loudest voices on the planet.
4. The blue color comes partially from the sea.
5. They have massive tongues (weighing as much as an elephant).
6. They eat mainly krill.
7. Each whale can weigh as much as 30 elephants.
8. They can grow over 100 ft long.
9. Blue whale hearts weigh about 400 pounds.
10. Blue whales can live between 80 and 90 years.

What are you doing this summer? Instead of sitting at home or picnicking in the park, consider taking a trip to San Diego to see a part of one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom. Reach out to a travel guide to learn more.