I make sure that with almost every event that happens in our life, we try to get the most learning experience out of it. Despite the grandeur of whales, it’s not every day we get to see one. On Monday, in Ocean City, NJ, (not too far from our home) we hear via Twitter that a whale was beached. The whale was a decaying carcass. There was no hope of a rescue. Still, we rushed out of our pajamas and to the scene.
There would be questions to answer, so after we left in pursuit, I went searching for answers that would soon be needed by my little ones. I am not a whale expert, but learning with my kids is one of my favorite things as a teaching parent. So, learning I did and teaching soon followed, and somehow this week has taken the theme of Whales (and as a homeschooling mama, I am ok with that).
I am about to give you 10 facts- but before I do, I would like to share with you my kiddos. They loved learning and sharing.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_fMJEg0VAA&context=C4a45da4ADvjVQa1PpcFNxouXiGdHXbOraqbWsc2D15T8Br3DXYkM=[/youtube]
10 FUN Facts About Finback Whales
- 1. Finback Whales are the 2nd largest whales in the world. They are slightly smaller than the Blue Whale.
- 2. They are actually named because their fin is way back on their body.
- 3. They are found in warm and cold water.
- 4. They are on the endangered species list. A theory of why this is is not because of fishing or hunting, (which is the case in some countries) but because noise and loud boats halt communication for whales to meet (a.k.a multiply).
- 5. The Finback Whale does not have teeth; they actually have baleen. Baleen is rows of fringe. These fringe like features sort out their food.
- 6. They eat krill, tiny fish, and plants.
- 7. They stay under water for up to an average of about 6 to 8 minutes long, but could stay under as long as 30 minutes. That is a long time!
- 8. They can be confused with Minke Whales, but their tails are a little shorter.
- 9. They can weigh up to 80 tons. Each ton is 2,000 pounds.
- 10. A Finback Whale is also called a Fin Whale. It is dark gray or brown on top and the belly is usually pale or yellowish brown in color.
Whales can be fun! Pretend you are a whale today. Here is a whale coloring sheet that might be a little fun to do too.
We used Animal Watch-A Visual Introduction to Whales, Dolphins, and Purposes and Whales, Killer Whales, Blue Whales and More as a resource!