Fin whale

The fin whale (*Balaenoptera physalus*) is a baleen whale and the second-largest animal and cetacean after the blue whale.

The fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) is a baleen whale and the second-largest animal and cetacean after the blue whale. It is also known as the finback whale or common rorqual. The species has a near-global oceanic distribution and is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Description

Fin whales have a streamlined body, a pointed snout, and a prominent dorsal fin set far back on the body. They are among the fastest of the large whales and are sometimes called the "greyhound of the sea."

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in most major oceans and is most often associated with temperate to cold waters. It generally prefers deep offshore habitats, though it can also be seen in coastal areas.

Feeding and behaviour

Fin whales are baleen feeders that consume krill, small schooling fish, and sometimes squid. They feed by engulfing prey-rich water and filtering it through baleen plates.

Conservation

Fin whales were severely reduced by commercial whaling in the 19th and 20th centuries. Global protections have allowed some recovery, but threats still include ship strikes, entanglement, acoustic disturbance, and prey reduction.