Bryde's Whale

Balaenoptera edeni is a slender baleen whale regularly found around northern New Zealand. Unlike the sei whale, it has three prominent ridges along the top of its head. It has a tall, curved dorsal fin and a dark grey back. Three head ridges and a frequently arched surfacing profile are useful field marks.

In New Zealand it is concentrated around the upper North Island, especially the Hauraki Gulf. It also ranges through warm temperate and tropical seas worldwide. It feeds by lunging through schools of small fish and krill. Individuals may surface unpredictably while following mobile prey.

The New Zealand population is Nationally Critical. Boat trips in the Hauraki Gulf offer the most realistic chance, especially from Auckland.