Humpback whales, Maui, Hawaii, USA

© Flip Nicklin/Minden Picture

Humpback whales

If you ever want to feel insignificant, just think about the sheer size of a humpback whale. With adults growing up to more than 13 - 17 metres , humpback whales are one of the biggest mammals on Earth. A species of baleen whale, humpback whales are known for their long elaborate songs, which travel far distances through the waters. Each whale population has its own whale song, and interestingly, it is only the males that sing the song. Also, did you know that whales are a distant relative of hippos? Both evolved from a common ancestor. Now that’s an interesting fact!