Fin Whale

By: Chelsea J. Wilson

The Fin Whale is an unusual species. Unlike other types of whales, they have asymmetrical bodies, speed, and large sizes. Most whales have only one of those characteristics, however, Fin Whales have all of them. Fin Whales may look perfectly symmetrical from a faraway view, but if you look closely, you will notice that the left side of their jaw is black and the right side is white. Only one other whale species has this “asymmetrical pigmentation” which is the Omura’s whale. Another characteristic of the Fin Whale is its ability to move throughout the water very swiftly. These massive mammals can swim up to 23 miles per hour. This may not seem as fast as a car or plane, however, for its size, that is a very fast pace for swimming. They are the fastest swimmers in the great whale species. Lastly, the Fin Whale is considered the second largest whale on the planet. They are close behind the Blue Whales. These beautiful creatures grow up to 90 feet long and weigh about 72 tons. Although this species is very large in size, they aren’t predatory. An enormous part of their diet is krill and pelagic fish so they are no harm to humans. Unfortunately, humans are very harmful to them.

Fin Whales are members of the endangered species list. They are on this list because of climate change and human threats. Climate change affects Fin Whales a lot because it makes it harder for them to track down prey. The changes in the temperatures of the water make their prey move around frequently. Without knowing the exact locations of their prey, Fin Whales have a hard time finding enough food to eat. Also, the change of temperature makes it difficult for them to decide when it is time to migrate. Human threats also take a toll on Fin Whales. Due to their size, Fin Whales easily get trapped in fishing gear. Sometimes, they unintentionally swim into nets or get hit by anchors. It usually takes too much energy for them to get out and they die from fatigue or severe injury. Marine biologists are trying to find ways to save this amazing species. The best way to keep them safe is by staying away from them. If you see Fin Whales close by, don’t anchor your ship or throw out any nets. You should try to find another place to settle your ship. Another way to help is by capturing fewer krill and smaller fish. Humans may like to eat these animals, however, we have to share this prey with Fin Whales and other larger mammals. We have to save some food for them. In conclusion, Fin Whales are marvelous creatures and we should try to do our best to keep them safe.

Works Cited

★ https://nextlevelsailing.com/how-big-is-a-whale-list-of-whales-by-size/#:~:text=Fin%20Whale,du e%20to%20their%20slim%20shape.

★ https://oceana.org/marine-life/marine-mammals/fin-whale

★ https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/fin-whale