Humpback Tail (IMAGE) Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Caption Humpback whales have distinctive tail markings that scientists use to track individuals as they migrate long distances, but satellite tracking provides more complete information about the routes they take and the speed at which they travel. Credit Anne Gordon, Whale Watching Panama Usage Restrictions Credit: Whale Watching Panama License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.