Marine waters are home to an extraordinary variety of living beings, each possessing unique traits and abilities. Beyond the vast schools of sardines and other small creatures, it is the sharks, dolphins, and especially the giant whales that captivate the attention of marine enthusiasts.
These magnificent mammals fascinate observers with the immense size of certain species and the spectacular leaps that some make above the ocean's surface. Due to their rarity, the death of a whale often causes a stir, as sightings are infrequent. Most whales that pass away descend to the ocean floor, while some end up stranded near shore.
It’s essential to note that approaching a deceased whale is dangerous. The internal buildup of gases can lead to an explosion, potentially causing serious harm or even fatal injuries from flying debris. To prevent such hazards, authorities typically make incisions in the whale's body before removing or burying it along the coast.
Speaking of whales, the largest can exceed a hundred feet in length, while the smallest are around sixteen feet. In oceans and seas, whales hold the title of the largest animals. On land, this title goes to the African elephant, and interestingly, it would take about twenty-six elephants to equal the weight of a blue whale, which can reach an astonishing 180 tons.
