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Sunlight Illuminates a Sperm Whale

Photo: Sunlight reflected through water ripples illuminates a sperm whale
Sperm whales' heads are filled with a mysterious substance called spermaceti. Scientists have yet to understand its function, but believe it may help the animal regulate its buoyancy.
Photograph by Brian J. Skerry

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Whale Features

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Top of the World

The frigid Bering Sea is one of the world's most productive marine environments. Find out why in this feature.

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Crittercam Chronicles

Strap yourself to a blue whale or ride along on a grizzly bear in these amazing Crittercam missions.

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Virtual World: Deep Sea

Meet the menacing sharks, giant octopuses, and bizarre eels of the deep sea in this Crittercam feature.

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