Eubalaena australis

Southern Right Whale

13–18 meter
70–100 jaar
Niet bedreigd
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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.

Grootte

13–18 meter

Gewicht

40,000–80,000 kg

Levensduur

70–100 jaar

Status

Niet bedreigd

Waar je ze kunt vinden

Beste duiklocaties

Schiereiland Valdés, ArgentiniëZuid-Georgia IslandAucklandeilanden, Nieuw-ZeelandZuid-Afrika (hermanus)Sub-Antarctische wateren

Duiktips

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.

Beste seizoen

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

Leefgebied

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

Voeding

Copepods and krill, filtered through baleen plates
Wist je dat?

Leuke weetjes

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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