Minke Whales are the smallest of the baleen whales. In the Monterey Bay region, it is possible to see Minke Whales year-round, but they are most frequently sighted during the Summer and Fall. These whales are usually found nearshore over rocky bottom regions where they prey on juvenile rockfish.
Diet
Opportunistic Feeder
Population Status | Monterey
Least Concern
Legal Protection
Marine Mammal Protection Act, National Marine Protected Area Act
Threats
Human Related Loss (Habitat Loss, Ocean Noise, Hunting, Food Source Loss, Climate Change, Disturbance, Entanglement, Harassment, Oil Spills, Pollution, Boat Strikes, Collisions)
Size
25 ft (Female)
32 ft (Male)
Weight
20,000 lbs (Female)
20,000 lbs (Male)