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Michael S. Nolan / SpecialistStock
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Michael S. Nolan / SpecialistStock
Adult Antarctic Minke Whale (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) surfacing in ice near Larrouy Island on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula. This whale is also known as the Southern Minke Whale. The minke whale is the second smallest of the baleen whales - only the pygmy right whale is smaller. Upon reaching sexual maturity (6-8 years of age), male and female minke whales measure an average of 6.9 and 7.4 metres (22 8" to 24 3" ) in length, respectively. Estimates of maximum length vary from 9.1 m to 10.7 m (28 10" to 35 1" ) for females and 8.8 m to 9.8 m (28 8" 10" to 32 5" ) for males. Both sexes typically weigh 4-5 tons at maturity, and the maximum weight may be as much as 14 tons. The gestation period for minke whales is 10 months and babies measure 2.4 to 2.8 metres (7 10" to 9 2" ) at birth. The newborns nurse for five months. Minke whales typically live for 30-50 years; in some cases they may live for up to 60 years. As of 2008, the IWC estimates for Southern Hemisphere Minke Whales is 665, 074. The IUCN list Antarctic Minke as Lower Risk/Conservation dependent
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Whale-y Cool Facts - Meet the Southern Minke Whale, the Underwater Supermodel!
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this stunning print captured by Michael S. Nolan, we get a glimpse into the icy world of Larrouy Island on the Antarctic Peninsula. And who's stealing the show? None other than our star of the sea - an adult Antarctic Minke Whale! Don't let its size fool you; this majestic creature may be only the second smallest baleen whale, but it sure knows how to make a splash! With males reaching up to 24 feet and females measuring around 23 feet in length, these whales are no shrinking violets. But wait, there's more! These gentle giants can weigh as much as 14 tons when fully grown – that's like having seven small cars swimming gracefully through the ocean depths. And talk about family values! After a gestation period of ten months, these amazing moms give birth to adorable babies measuring between 7 and 9 feet long. The little ones nurse for five months before venturing out on their own aquatic adventures. With a lifespan ranging from 30 to even 60 years, these whales have plenty of time to explore and enjoy their chilly surroundings. Thankfully, conservation efforts have helped maintain healthy populations with an estimated count of over half a million in recent years. So next time you spot an Antarctic Minke Whale surfacing amidst icebergs like a true superstar – remember they're not just cute faces; they're fascinating creatures deserving our admiration and protection!
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