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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Humpback whale found dead on Omani shores

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A Humpback whale was found dead on shores of Ras Jafen near Al Ashkhara on Thursday. Investigations underway to determine the cause of its death, according to Environment Society of Oman.


The humpback whale is a species of baleen whale. The adults range in length from 12–16 m and weigh about 36,000kg . The humpback has a distinctive body shape, with long pectoral fins and a knobbly head. It is known for breaching and other distinctive surface behaviors, making it popular with whale watchers. Males produce a complex song lasting 10 to 20 minutes, which they repeat for hours at a time. Its purpose is not clear, though it may have a role in mating.


Found in oceans and seas around the world, humpback whales typically migrate up to 25,000km each year. Humpbacks feed in polar waters, and migrate to tropical or subtropical waters to breed and give birth when they fast and live off their fat reserves. Their diet consists mostly of krill and small fish. Humpbacks have a diverse repertoire of feeding methods, including the bubble net technique.


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