Cetaceans

Cetaceans are truly remarkable animals! Some of your favorite marine mammals like whales, dolphins, and porpoises are all cetaceans. Being mammals, like humans, means they are warm-blooded, have at least a few hairs on their bodies, and nourish their young with milk. Unlike humans, cetaceans spend their whole lives in water. Cetacean behavior is very diverse and some scientists have reported some behaviors as "play." Learn more about cetacean behavior at our marine mammal education site.

How many types of cetaceans are there?

Lots! Over 70 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises populate the world's oceans. To study these cetaceans we categorize the species into two main groups: baleen whales (Mysticetes) and toothed whales (Odontocetes).

Check out these cool photos at the Whale Gallery