MINKE WHALE Watching (Balaenoptera Acutorostrata)
The Minke (min-kee) Whale is the smallest of the non-toothed whales, reaching lengths of 25-35 feet. There are two sub species of Minke Whale, the larger Northern Hemisphere and the dwarf Southern Hemisphere species. Minkes often travel alone or in very small groups of 2-5 animals. Minke whales use the same filter process as Blue and Finback Whales and their diets are very similar, with krill and small fish constituting the majority of their diet. Minkes were very rarely viewed off the coast of Southern California waters until 2005 when greater numbers were frequently encountered. The Minke Whale tends to be shyer when viewed on one of our whale watching cruises so it is a real treat to view a Minke Whale for an extended period of time.
Minke Whales can dive underwater for 30 minutes or more and can live for around 20 years. There are about 800,000 Minke Whales worldwide and their large numbers have been a reason for reconsidering opening to regulated harvesting.
Female Minke Whales travel closer to shore than their male counterparts. Unlike Blue Whales and Finback Whales, Minkes reach sexual maturity at only 2 years of age. This may explain their much greater population.