- Largest animal ever recorded, up to 100 feet long and weighing 200 tons
- Found in all oceans, most commonly in the North Atlantic and North Pacific
- Feeds on krill, consuming up to 4 tons per day
- Vocalizations are among the loudest of any animal, reaching up to 188 decibels
- Critically endangered, with only about 10,000-25,000 remaining
2. Fin whale (_Balaenoptera physalus_):
- Second-largest whale species, growing up to 85 feet long and weighing up to 80 tons
- Found in all oceans, but most abundant in the North Atlantic and North Pacific
- Feeds on krill, fish, and squid
- Vocalizations consist of low-frequency moans and groans
- Endangered, with an estimated population of around 100,000
3. Humpback whale (_Megaptera novaeangliae_):
- Distinguished by their long, arched flippers and distinctive tail patterns
- Found in all oceans, but most abundant in the North Pacific and North Atlantic
- Feeds on krill, fish, and plankton
- Known for their complex songs, which are used for communication and mating
- Vulnerable, with an estimated population of around 80,000
4. Killer whale (_Orcinus orca_):
- Also known as the "orca", a member of the dolphin family
- Found in all oceans, but most abundant in coastal waters
- Feeds on fish, seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals
- Highly intelligent and social animals, living in pods with complex social structures
- Not endangered, with an estimated population of around 50,000
5. Beluga whale (_Delphinapterus leucas_):
- Small, white whale with a distinctive "melon" on its head
- Found in Arctic and sub-Arctic waters
- Feeds on fish, shrimp, and other invertebrates
- Known for their friendly nature and vocalizations, which include whistles, clicks, and chirps
- Near Threatened, with an estimated population of around 150,000
6. Sperm whale (_Physeter macrocephalus_):
- Largest toothed whale species, growing up to 60 feet long and weighing up to 80 tons
- Found in all oceans, but most abundant in warm, tropical waters
- Feeds on squid, using their powerful sonar to locate prey
- Known for their large, boxy heads, which contain spermaceti, a waxy substance used for echolocation
- Vulnerable, with an estimated population of around 300,000