Physical Statistics:
Humpbacks reach 40-50 feet in length and can weigh 35-40 tons.

Field Marks:
The blow of a humpback is very short and bushy, reaching 18-20 feet in height. It is generally seen slightly before the dorsal fin
appears. In this species, the dorsal fin is much shorter, smaller, and more variable in shape and located more centrally on the whale's body. The flippers are the longest of any cetacean species, reaching 1/3 of the length of the whale's body and are usually predominantly white in color. Humpbacks will usually bring the tail out of the water when diving with the dive lasting an average of 5-7 minutes. They are quite capable, however, of staying down for 35-minute periods. Humpbacks are usually found alone or in pairs but will form larger groups to cooperatively feed.

Individual Identification:
Humpbacks have a very distinctive black and white pattern on the underside of the tail that can be seen when diving. The pattern can range from all white to all black and just like the fin whale, it is a pattern unique to the individual. Because it is more prominent than the chevron of a fin whale, identification is much easier, thus most of the humpbacks have names that are used for reference purposes, along with identification numbers. Pigment coloration also varies on the pectoral fins (flippers) and can be used for identification. The dorsal fin shape and any scarring on the body are also helpful in determining what individuals have been sighted.

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