Various colored-whale tail fins

Humpback whales can be distinguished from one another by the black and white patterns and scars on the ventral side of their tail fins, suggesting that all whales have natural markings. In other words, by examining the black and white patterns and shapes, it is possible to identify each whale without harming or killing it. This pattern is basically unchanged throughout their life, but in young whales, there is a certain amount of change in pigmentation over time. Although there are individual differences, it is known that the grayish-brown color of newborn calves settles into a distinct black and white pattern in about two to three years. In addition, contact with other whales and attacks by killer whales or sharks can cause scars to increase.

 

Changing tail fins of baby whales

The pattern on the underside of the tail fin of humpback whales is basically unchanged throughout their lives, but in young whales, the pigmentation changes over time to some extent. Although there are individual differences, it is known that the grayish-brown color of newborn calves becomes a distinct black-and-white pattern in about two to three years. Contact with other whales and attacks by killer whales or sharks can cause scars to increase.