Southern Right Whale

Eubalaena australis is a broad-bodied baleen whale that breeds in sheltered southern waters. It differs from rorquals by lacking a dorsal fin and carrying rough callosities on its head. The body is black or mottled, with a strongly bowed mouth and broad flippers. Its V-shaped blow is distinctive when conditions are calm.

New Zealand’s main concentration is around the Auckland Islands, with occasional mainland visits. The species occurs across temperate and subantarctic Southern Hemisphere seas. It filters copepods and krill while swimming slowly with its mouth open. Mothers use sheltered water with calves, while adults may gather socially.

The New Zealand population is Nationally Increasing. Auckland Islands expedition voyages offer the best chance; mainland encounters remain uncommon.