What are the bumps on the humpback’s face and neck region?
The characteristic golf ball sized bumps on the head and chin of the humpback whales are called rostral knobs, or tubercles. They are hypothesized to be sensory mechanisms to detect changes in current, temperature, and vibrations caused by the sound or movement of prey or predators. It is also suggested that they may enhance maneuverability by improving lift and drag.
