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Wildlife Species Profile

Minke Whales

Balaenoptera acutorostrata • The Elusive Wanderers

Minke Whales

The smallest baleen whales in the area, Minke whales are often elusive and typically solitary. Known for their quick, subtle surfacing behavior, they require patience and keen observation to spot in the waters around Telegraph Cove.

Characteristics

Minke whales are the smallest baleen whales, reaching 7-10 meters in length and weighing 5-10 tonnes. They have a sleek, streamlined body with a pointed rostrum.

Their most distinctive feature is white bands on their pectoral fins, visible when they breach or roll at the surface. The dorsal fin is tall and falcate (curved).

They have 230-360 baleen plates on each side of their mouth, which are yellowish-white with fine white bristles.

Behavior

Minke whales are known for their quick, subtle surfacing. They rarely show their flukes when diving and don't produce a visible blow like larger whales.

They're generally solitary but may gather in small groups at feeding areas. They're curious and occasionally approach boats, though they're often boat-shy.

They feed on small schooling fish, krill, and copepods, often lunge-feeding at the surface. They can dive for up to 20 minutes but typically surface every 2-5 minutes.

Fascinating Facts

Can swim at speeds up to 38 km/h, making them one of the fastest baleen whales

Named after a Norwegian whaler named Meincke who mistook them for blue whales

Can live up to 60 years in the wild

Have the widest distribution of any baleen whale species

Best Viewing Times

June through September

Often solitary and elusive. Look for their distinctive pointed rostrum breaking the surface without a visible blow. Most active during dawn and dusk feeding periods.