Common Minke Whale

Common Minke Whale

Balaenoptera acutorostrata

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Common Minke Whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) is the smallest of the rorqual whales, characterized by its sleek, dark gray to black body with a white underside and a distinctive white band on its flippers in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a cosmopolitan species, found in all oceans, preferring cooler coastal and offshore waters but migrating to warmer waters for breeding. Primarily a filter feeder, its diet consists mainly of krill and small schooling fish, and it typically travels alone or in small groups, though large aggregations can occur in rich feeding grounds.

Max Length 10.7 m
Max Weight 10 t
Lifespan 30 - 60 years
Habitat Coastal zone and open water
Depth Range 0+
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Common Minke Whale

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Common Minke Whale

Range

Where Common Minke Whale has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Common Minke Whale

Where can you see the Common Minke Whale?

The Common Minke Whale can be seen at 6 dive destinations in Australia, Mexico, Ecuador, and Belize. The best spots include Ribbon Reefs (Australia), Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), Ningaloo reef (Australia), Revillagigedo Islands (Mexico), and Socorro Islands (Mexico).

What is the best time to see the Common Minke Whale?

Sightings of the Common Minke Whale peak at different times depending on the destination: Ribbon Reefs from June to July and Ningaloo reef from August to October.

Where can you see the Common Minke Whale in Australia?

In Australia, you can see the Common Minke Whale at Ribbon Reefs and Ningaloo reef.

Where can you see the Common Minke Whale in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Common Minke Whale at Revillagigedo Islands and Socorro Islands.

Where can you see the Common Minke Whale in Ecuador?

In Ecuador, you can see the Common Minke Whale at Galapagos Islands.

How big does the Common Minke Whale get?

The Common Minke Whale can reach up to 10.7 m in length and 10 t in weight.

What habitat does the Common Minke Whale live in?

The Common Minke Whale is found in these habitats: coastal zone and open water.

What does the Common Minke Whale eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Common Minke Whale most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Common Minke Whale live?

The Common Minke Whale lives 30 to 60 years.

What is the conservation status of the Common Minke Whale?

The Common Minke Whale is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Common Minke Whale. Spotted something that looks off?

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