There are 14 species of baleen whales, from the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), the largest animal in the world, to the pygmy right whale (Caperea marginata), which at about 20 feet is the smallest baleen whale.
All baleen whales are in the order Cetacean and suborder Mysticeti and use plates made of keratin to filter their food. Common prey items for baleen whales include small schooling fish, krill and plankton.
Baleen whales are majestic animals and can exhibit fascinating behaviors, as shown in some of the photos in this image gallery.
Images 1-10 of 10
- Graphic Index
- Text Index