Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus)

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Fin whales are the second largest animals after the blue whale. Fin whales have been know to mate with blue whales and produce viable offspring. It is incredible to see the exhaled breath (blow) reaching 6-10 meters high just like a small geyser rising from the oceans surface and the long body that seems never ending as it dives back into the blue abyss.

Unfortunately, these have also been hunted in Iceland since 2009 with few caught in 2008, the meat is mainly hunted for the market in Japan which is now significantly reduced if non existent. By coming whale watching with us you are helping us fight the battle against all whaling in Iceland

Length: 20-28 meters
Weight: 70- 120 tons
Life expectancy: 90 years – some found between 135 -140 years old
Est. population around Iceland: 10,000
Social behaviour: Mainly solitary but come together in feeding and mating grounds
Diet: Krill, small schooling fish
Suborder: Mysticeti – Baleen Whale
Family: Balaenopteridae – Rorqual
IUCN Listing: Endangered
Major threats: Whaling, climate change, chemical and noise pollution, ship strikes(most commonly struck whale)
Other Names: Langreyður, Baleine À Nageoires, Ballena de Aleta, Finnwal, Finhval, Ffinnhval, Baleia-comum