10 Incredible Things You Might Not Know About Whales

7. The Bowhead Whale: Masters of Longevity

Bowhead whales are renowned for their incredible longevity, with some individuals living over 200 years. These Arctic giants are well-adapted to the extreme conditions of their icy habitat, with thick blubber and a massive bow-shaped skull that allows them to break through ice to breathe. Bowhead whales are baleen whales, feeding primarily on zooplankton and small fish, which they filter from the water using their baleen plates. The longevity of bowhead whales is a subject of great interest to scientists, as it offers insights into the aging process and the potential for extended lifespans in other species. Bowheads have been found with stone harpoon tips embedded in their blubber, dating back to the 19th century, providing tangible evidence of their remarkable lifespans. This longevity, combined with their unique adaptations to life in the Arctic, makes bowhead whales a fascinating subject of study and a testament to the resilience of life in the harshest environments on Earth.