Balaenoptera bonaerensis

Antarctic Minke Whale

7–10 metri
40–50 anni
Quasi minacciato
Informazioni

Antarctic Minke Whale

The Antarctic minke whale is the smallest of the baleen whales found in Antarctic waters and the most commonly encountered cetacean on Antarctic Peninsula expeditions. These curious, agile whales often approach stationary vessels and zodiac boats, surfacing close alongside in a behaviour known as 'mugging'. Their inquisitive nature and predictable presence in the pack ice make them a highlight of Antarctic diving and snorkelling.

Dimensioni

7–10 metri

Peso

5,000–10,000 kg

Durata della vita

40–50 anni

Stato

Quasi minacciato

Dove trovarli

Migliori siti di immersione

Antarctic PeninsulaWilhelmina Bay, AntartideCierva Cove, AntartideLemaire Channel

Consigli per le immersioni

Minke whales in Antarctica are remarkably curious and may approach divers and snorkellers. Stay still and let them come to you. They can appear suddenly from beneath the ice — an exhilarating experience. Underwater visibility in Antarctic waters can be exceptional (30m+). Avoid reaching out to touch them.

Stagione migliore

December–March (Antarctic summer)

Habitat

Southern Ocean, particularly in pack ice zones and along the Antarctic Peninsula during summer

Alimentazione

Primarily Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), supplemented with small fish
Lo sapevi?

Curiosità

1

Antarctic minke whales are known for 'mugging' zodiac boats — approaching within arm's reach

2

They can hold their breath for up to 20 minutes and dive to 300 metres

3

Unlike most baleen whales, they are small enough to navigate through pack ice channels

4

They are the most abundant baleen whale species in the Southern Ocean

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