The smallest of the rorqual whales, the minke whale is also the
most abundant (2). Two species are now recognised, the northern
hemisphere minke whale (the subject of this species page) and
the southern hemisphere minke whale (Balaenoptera bonaerensis)
(5). Minke whales are slim in shape (2), with a pointed
'dolphin-like' head (2), bearing a double blow-hole (5). The
smooth skin is dark grey above, the belly and undersides of the
flippers are white, and there is often a white band on the
flipper (5) (6). When seen at close quarters, minke whales have
variable 'smoky' patterns which have been used to photo-identify
individuals (2). No one has provided updates yet.