hi Kylie:
> the first one is what is the habitat of the whales?
It varies from coastal and continental shelf waters (which are fairly
shallow) to deepest ocean. It depends on the kind of whale. Sperm
whales live in very deep water, for example, while humpbacks are often
found closer to the coast (though they often migrate through deep
ocean).
> the second is what are their unique features?
They are uniquely adapted to life in water. Their bodies are
streamlined, they can dive for very long periods, and they have
insulation (blubber) to protect them from the cold. The front limbs
(like front legs) have developed intio flippers, which are much more
efficient in water. The hind limbs have completely disappeared. And
the "nose" - the nostrils - have moved back to the top of the head so
that it's easier for them to breathe without taking water into their
lungs.
> the third one is how young are they reared?
Depends on the kind of whale. They produce milk like other mammals, so
whale calves spend at least their first few months of life suckling and
feeding on milk. Whale calves stay with their mothers for six months to
a year (in the baleen whales), or up to several years (in sperm
whales). Calves of baleen whales (like humpbacks) separate from their
moms after a year (sometimes less), but sperm whale kids stay with their
mothers for many years.
> i wouldnt have a clue what that last one means because my science
> teacher gave me this assingment today.
> i hope you can help me with this research
> i need this information by today if you can.
>
> thankyou for your help
> from kylie versace
--Phillip J. Clapham, Ph.D. Large Whale Biology Program Northeast Fisheries Science Center 166 Water Street Woods Hole, MA 02543, U.S.A.
tel. 508 495-2316 fax 508 495-2066 email: pclapham@whsun1.wh.whoi.edu
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