1. Neonate: This stage begins at birth and lasts until the whale is weaned. During this time, the whale is completely dependent on its mother for food and protection. The mother whale will nurse her calf and teach it how to swim and hunt.
2. Juvenile: The juvenile stage begins when the whale is weaned and ends when it reaches sexual maturity. During this time, the whale will continue to grow and learn from its mother and other members of its pod.
3. Adult: The adult stage begins when the whale reaches sexual maturity. At this point, the whale is capable of reproducing and raising its own young. Whales can live for many years, with some species living for over 100 years.