Balaenoptera acutorostrata
The minke whale is the smallest of the great whales found in BC waters. These sleek, fast swimmers are often solitary and can be difficult to spot due to their small, quick blow and tendency to surface briefly. Despite their small size among whales, they can still weigh as much as a school bus.
Length
7-10 m
Weight
5,000-10,000 kg
Found throughout BC waters, from coastal inlets to open ocean. Often seen in areas with abundant fish and krill.
Feeds on small schooling fish like herring, sand lance, and capelin, as well as krill. Uses a lunge-feeding technique similar to other rorquals.
Generally solitary and shy. Rarely breaches but may approach boats out of curiosity. Known for their fast swimming speed and unpredictable surfacing pattern.
Marine Mammal
Megaptera novaeangliae
Humpback whales are known for their spectacular breaching displays and haunting songs. After being hunted to near extinction, their population has made a remarkable recovery in BC waters. These acrobatic giants migrate from breeding grounds in Hawaii and Mexico to feed in the nutrient-rich waters of the BC coast each summer.
Marine Mammal
Phocoenoides dalli
Dall's porpoises are the speed demons of the porpoise world, capable of bursts up to 55 km/h. Their distinctive black and white coloring and energetic bow-riding behavior make them a favorite among whale watchers. They create a distinctive "rooster tail" spray when swimming at high speed.