Minke WhaleThe minke whale is the smallest of all baleen whales. These whales are still commercially hunted. Yet, while getting attention from the whalers they are neglected by whale watchers. Length and WeightAverage male length: 8 m Average female length: 9 m Body weight: 5,400 – 6,800 kgAt birth, the calf is about 2.8 m long and weighs around 454 kg. That is about as much as 1.5 adult grizzly bears! Body and FinsThese whales have a slender body. The head is triangular shaped, has a central ridge and a very pointed snout.The dorsal fin is strongly curved and pointed. The pectoral fins (flippers) have a characteristic band of white. The flukes are dark coloured above and light coloured below.
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