Pronunciation: [fˈɪn wˈe͡ɪlz] (IPA) 
Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) are one of the largest animals in the world. The spelling of their name is fairly straightforward - the word 'fin' is spelt with the letter 'F', followed by the letter 'I' and then the letter 'N'. The word 'whales' is spelled with the letter 'W', the letters 'H', 'A', 'L' and 'E' and then finally the letter 'S'. In IPA phonetic transcription, this would be /fɪn weɪlz/.
Fin whales, also known by their scientific name Balaenoptera physalus, are the second largest species of marine mammal and belong to the family Balaenopteridae. They are called "fin whales" due to the prominent dorsal fin located towards the end of their body, which distinguishes them from other species. These magnificent creatures can reach lengths of up to 75-85 feet (23-26 meters) and can weigh up to 70-80 tons, making them an impressive sight in the ocean.
Fin whales are characterized by their streamlined bodies, which are elongated and slender, allowing them to move swiftly through the water. They possess a distinct coloration pattern, featuring a dark grey to blackish color on their upper body, while their undersides display a lighter tone. Additionally, they have a characteristic asymmetrical coloration on the lower jaw and the right side of their head, with a white or yellowish coloration extending towards their belly.
Feeding primarily on small to moderate-sized schooling fish, such as herring and krill, fin whales are known for their exceptional feeding strategies. They are filter feeders and employ a technique known as lunge feeding, in which they engulf a large volume of prey and water into their mouth, then filtering it out through baleen plates, trapping the food while water is expelled.
The global distribution of fin whales spans across various oceans, particularly in temperate and polar waters. They undertake extensive migratory patterns, often traveling long distances to reach productive feeding grounds during the summer and moving towards warmer waters for breeding during the winter.
Despite being classified as an endangered species due to commercial whaling and ship strikes, significant conservation measures are being implemented to protect and preserve these extraordinary animals, ensuring their continued existence and contribution
The word "Fin Whales" derives from the species' physical characteristics and appearance.
The term "Fin" refers to the fin-like dorsal fin found on the back of these whales. It is one of their most distinctive features, often shaped like a sickle and standing tall when the whale surfaces. The word "fin" originates from Middle English and Old English, related to the Old Norse word "fjǫrn", meaning "fin, wing".
The term "Whales" describes the type of creature it is. The word "whale" itself originated from the Old English word "hwæl" or "hwal", which has Germanic origins. It is likely related to the Old Norse word "hvalr", which meant "whale".
Therefore, "Fin Whales" is the combination of their notable fin-like dorsal fins and their classification as large marine mammals in the whale family.
