Whales are fascinating creatures that vary significantly in size, from species that can be smaller than some shark types to those that hold the title of the largest animals on Earth. A whale size comparison guide offers a helpful perspective on understanding the vast differences in size among various whale species.
In this guide, we will explore the sizes of the largest and smallest whales in relation to each other and in comparison to humans. From whales as long as three school buses to ones not much larger than the average person, this comprehensive guide provides an exciting glimpse into the magnificent world of these ocean giants.
How Big are Whales?
Whale sizes exhibit impressive variability, with lengths ranging from a modest 8.5 feet and 300 pounds to a colossal 100 feet and over 160 tons. Given their vast diversity, whales hold several records, such as the largest toothed predator and the largest animal to have ever existed.
It is essential to acknowledge that each whale species possesses its unique characteristics, making it distinct from others. This aspect can make grasping the immense size disparities between different whale types quite challenging.
A handy tool for better comprehension is a whale size comparison guide, which allows for an easier understanding of just how massive various whale species are in relation to one another and even humans. With this guide, you’ll get a clearer picture of the magnificent differences in size among the diverse whale species.
Blue Whale Size
There are several subspecies of blue whales, with ongoing debates on their classification. Currently, we recognize five subspecies:
- Antarctic blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus intermedia)
- North Atlantic and North Pacific blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus musculus)
- Pygmy blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus brevicauda)
- Northern Indian Ocean blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus indica)
- South Pacific Ocean blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus unnamed species)
The Antarctic blue whale is the largest animal on Earth, even surpassing most known dinosaurs in size. These giants can weigh up to an astounding 330,000 pounds (165 tons), which is heavier than the entire Statue of Liberty. The heaviest blue whale ever recorded weighed a massive 418,878 pounds!
On the other hand, the Pygmy blue whale is the smallest subspecies within the blue whale family. However, don’t let the name fool you, as they still rank among the largest animals in existence. Pygmy blue whales can reach lengths of nearly 80 feet and weigh approximately 116,000 pounds, or 58 tons.
In summary, blue whales are not only the biggest members of the whale family but also the largest animals in the world. Their incredible size varies across subspecies, with the Antarctic blue whale being the largest and the Pygmy blue whale being the smallest among them.
Sperm Whale Size
Sperm whales, although not the biggest creatures on Earth, are the largest toothed predators and exhibit a range of sizes. Within the sperm whale family, there are three distinct types of sperm whales: the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), the pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps), and the dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima).
The sperm whale can grow up to 68 feet in length and weigh more than 174,000 pounds. In comparison, the pygmy sperm whale reaches a maximum length of 11 feet and weighs around 900 pounds, whereas the dwarf sperm whale, the smallest member of the family, only grows to about 9 feet and weighs no more than 600 pounds.
An interesting fact is that it would take approximately 290 dwarf sperm whales to match the weight of a typical sperm whale, which is equivalent to the combined weight of two 18-wheeler transport trucks.
A significant portion of a sperm whale’s size and weight comes from its head, which accounts for up to 33 percent of its body. This is reflected in the species’ name, with “macro” denoting a large size and “cephalus” referring to the head.
Humpback Whale Size
Humpback whales, popular among whale watchers for their surface antics, are among the largest species of whales. Interestingly, females tend to be slightly larger than males, which is unusual among mammals. The largest recorded humpback whale measured 62 feet in length, with pectoral fins extending an impressive 20 feet.
Typically, humpback whales grow to an average length of 46 to 52 feet. Their weight can reach up to 80,000 pounds, equivalent to the weight of a firetruck. These magnificent creatures are truly remarkable by size alone, making them a fascinating subject for enthusiasts and marine biologists alike.
Killer Whale Size
Killer whales, also known as orcas, are toothed predators that might not be as large as sperm whales but still exhibit impressive sizes. Male orcas typically grow larger than females, with their length usually reaching up to 26 feet, and they can weigh up to 12,000 pounds. This considerable weight makes them 13 times more massive than the pygmy sperm whale. The largest recorded killer whale weighed a whopping 22,000 pounds and measured 32 feet long!
Distinguishing male and female killer whales is possible through the differences in their dorsal fins. In the case of males, their dorsal fins can grow up to an astounding 5.9 feet tall, almost double the size of females’ fins. If one were to stand on the back of a male orca, its dorsal fin would likely tower over the person!
Killer whales, dolphins, and porpoises are all part of the cetacean family, sharing some similarities in appearance and behaviors.
Human Vs Whale Size Comparison
When comparing humans to whales, the differences in size are quite impressive. Even the smallest whales, such as the dwarf sperm whale, are significantly larger than the tallest person alive. The dwarf sperm whale measures about 8 to 8.5 feet long and weighs around 400 pounds, while Sultan Kösen, the tallest person in the world, is 8.2 feet tall and weighs approximately 300 pounds.
Taking a look at the enormous Antarctic blue whale, their heart alone is an astonishing size, comparable to a bumper car and weighing 400 pounds. It is said that humans could literally crawl through and explore the life-sized replicas found in some museums.
In the case of humpback whales, their pectoral fins are among the longest in the ocean. Measuring about 20 feet in length, these fins are nearly four times the height of an average person. However, there’s no need to worry about being swallowed by a humpback whale, as their throat is roughly the size of a human fist and doesn’t expand much larger.
While killer whales may not have the largest teeth in the ocean, their teeth still grow to around 3 inches long. To put that into perspective, the average human tooth is only 0.4 inches, meaning killer whale teeth are ten times longer!
In summary, humans are relatively small compared to the various species of whales. These gentle giants of the sea truly put the size of humans into perspective as we stand next to impressive creatures such as the dwarf sperm whale, Antarctic blue whale, humpback whale, and the killer whale.