Whale Icon

Whale Encyclopedia

Discover the magnificent cetaceans of our oceans

Common Minke Whale
Least Concern

Common Minke Whale

B. acutorostrata

About This Species

Smallest of the great whales at 7-10m (23-33ft) and up to 9 tons, with distinctive pointed snout, streamlined body, and characteristic white band on the flippers. Most abundant and widely distributed rorqual found in all major oceans from Arctic to Antarctic, known for curious behavior around vessels. Less depleted by historical whaling due to their smaller size.

Size

7-10m

Weight

up to 9 tons