Eubalaena australis
The southern right whale was named by whalers as the 'right' whale to hunt — it swam slowly, floated when killed, and yielded large quantities of oil and baleen. Hunted to near extinction, populations have recovered remarkably since commercial whaling ceased. These gentle giants are now a highlight of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic expeditions, often approaching vessels with calm curiosity. Their enormous callosities (rough patches of skin) are unique to each individual, like fingerprints.
Tamaño
13–18 metros
Peso
40,000–80,000 kg
Esperanza de vida
70–100 años
Estado
Preocupación menor
They have the largest testicles of any animal — each weighing over 500 kg
Their callosities host colonies of whale lice and barnacles unique to each whale
Mothers and calves are remarkably affectionate, often seen nuzzling and playing together
Their slow recovery from whaling — only about 7% annual growth — means some populations are still vulnerable
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