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February 3, 2010

Humpback Whale Wing on Wing

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The humpback whale’s scientific name is Megaptera novaeangliae, meaning ‘Giant Wings of New England’, which refers to their large pectoral fins that can reach a length of 15 feet. These fins are used for maneuverability, stabilization, enabling the whale to stop, and swim backwards. And sometimes they are used just to show off.

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Photo by Phillip Colla

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