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Dwarf Minke Whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata)

Narrow pointed head with single ridge

Dark colour band around neck 

Tall, hooked dorsal fin set 2/3 back

50-70 throat pleats extend past flippers

White flipper and shoulder blaze

White lower body, with light grey thorax and flank patch

  • Length: Smallest rorqual whale 7 to 8 meters 

  • Group size: Usually solitary, in pairs or small groups

  • Key features:  White flipper and shoulder blazes with blackened flipper tips 

  • Behaviours: Brief surfacing intervals, small and weak blow

  • Habitat: Coastal areas, reefs and continental shelf

  • Conservation status: Listed as Least Concern by IUCN Red List

Dwarf Minke Whale.png
Dwarf Minke Whale1.png
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