Why Whales Travel So Far

Every year, some whales swim thousands of miles across the ocean without stopping to rest.

These incredible journeys are called migrations, and they are among the longest animal movements on Earth.

Whales travel so far mainly because they need different things at different times of year.

In summer, many whales feed in cold polar waters, where food is rich and plentiful.

Tiny shrimp-like creatures called krill fill these cold seas in enormous numbers.

When winter arrives, whales [cannot] survive in freezing polar waters, so they must move.

They swim toward warmer tropical oceans near the equator to give birth and raise their young.

Humpback whales are famous for these long trips, traveling up to 10,000 miles each way.

Blue whales also make similar journeys, following the seasons to find enough food and warmth.

Scientists believe whales use the Earth's magnetic field to navigate across vast, open oceans.

They may also follow underwater sounds and use their memory of past routes to guide them.

These migrations are dangerous because whales must cross busy shipping lanes and avoid fishing nets.

Climate change is also making these journeys harder by shifting where food is found in the ocean.

Understanding why whales travel so far helps us protect these magnificent animals and their ocean home.