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Minke Whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata)

Flattened head

Variable light patch on front

Black to dark‑grey upper side

Fin curves, positioned far back

Dark upper flukes, light underside

Pointed snout

40-65 throats grooves that extend to navel

Slim flippers, dark underside

Uniform color on lower lip

Pale underside, circular scar marks

  • Length: Smallest rorqual whale, reaching about 10 metres

  • Group Size: Usually solitary or in small travelling groups

  • Key Features: Pointed snout, curved dorsal fin, white flipper band

  • Behaviour: Fast swimmer entering bays, fjords, and ice fields

  • Habitat: Coastal to offshore waters across all major oceans

  • Conservation Status: Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List

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Fin Whale 9.jpg
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