Whales are generally found in shallow coastal waters, often in waters barely deep enough to cover their bodies, foraging along the productive continental shelf areas. They may also be found in deeper waters. In the summer, many populations are found in warmer waters. Many species of whales seem to be well-adapted to both cold ocean habitats and warmer fresh water habitats. Some types of whales are coastal, that is, they stay near shore, and others are oceanic, that is, they roam the open seas.
Several species give birth and rear young in protected coastal bays and lagoons.
Behavior Whales live in groups called pods. The size of the pods usually varies from less than 5 to about 30 individuals. A pod is a cohesive long-term social unit, usually consisting of males, females and calves of varying ages. Several smaller pods may join occasionally to form larger groups of 50 or more whales called herds. There is an occasional trade of members between pods, especially during breeding season.