Eubalaena australis

Southern Right Whale

13–18 mètres
70–100 ans
Préoccupation mineure
À propos

Southern Right Whale

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.

Taille

13–18 mètres

Poids

40,000–80,000 kg

Durée de vie

70–100 ans

Statut

Préoccupation mineure

Où les trouver

Meilleurs sites de plongée

Péninsule Valdés, ArgentineÎle de Géorgie du SudÎles Auckland, Nouvelle-ZélandeAfrique du Sud (hermanus)Eaux subantarctiques

Conseils de plongée

Southern right whales are occasionally encountered during Antarctic voyages. They are slow-moving and curious, sometimes approaching vessels. In-water encounters are rare but possible at Valdés Peninsula and Auckland Islands under strict regulations. Never approach closer than 30 metres — let the whale come to you.

Meilleure saison

June–December (breeding at Valdés Peninsula), November–March (Antarctic waters)

Habitat

Temperate to sub-Antarctic waters of the Southern Hemisphere. Breed in sheltered coastal bays.

Régime alimentaire

Copepods and krill, filtered through baleen plates
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Faits amusants

1

They have the largest testicles of any animal — each weighing over 500 kg

2

Their callosities host colonies of whale lice and barnacles unique to each whale

3

Mothers and calves are remarkably affectionate, often seen nuzzling and playing together

4

Their slow recovery from whaling — only about 7% annual growth — means some populations are still vulnerable

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