Balaenidae

The Balaenidae, commonly known as right whales, are a family of baleen whales that includes three living species: the North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis), the North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica), and the Southern right whale (Eubalaena australis). These whales are characterized by their large size, distinctive arched mouths, and lack of dorsal fins. Right whales are filter feeders, using their baleen plates to strain krill, copepods, and other small organisms from the water. They are found in coastal waters around the world, typically preferring warm, temperate latitudes.

Southern Right Whale – Eubalaena australis

North Atlantic Right Whale – Eubalaena glacialis

Characteristics

Right whales are among the largest baleen whales, with adults reaching lengths of up to 18 meters (59 feet) and weighing up to 65 tons. They have a distinctive arched mouth, which gives them a smiling appearance. They lack a dorsal fin, but have two small, crescent-shaped pectoral fins and a broad, flat tail. Their bodies are typically black or dark gray, often with white markings on their chests and bellies.

Distribution and Habitat

Right whales are found in the coastal waters of the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and Southern Hemisphere. They prefer warm, temperate waters, often spending time in areas with high concentrations of their prey, such as krill. They are known to migrate long distances between breeding and feeding grounds.

Behavior and Diet

Right whales are generally slow-moving, spending much of their time near the surface of the water. They are known for their unique feeding behavior, which involves opening their mouths wide and filtering water through their baleen plates. They are primarily filter feeders, consuming small crustaceans like krill and copepods, as well as other small organisms.

Conservation Status

All three species of right whales are considered critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their populations have been decimated by whaling, habitat loss, and entanglement in fishing gear. Conservation efforts focus on reducing ship strikes, mitigating fishing gear entanglement, and protecting their critical habitats.