Southern Sei Whale

The southern sei whale is a migratory baleen whale recorded offshore. Sightings are infrequent and identification can be difficult. It has a dark streamlined body, tall curved fin and one central head ridge. Adults are usually 15–20 metres long.

It inhabits deep temperate and Subantarctic water and avoids enclosed coasts. It passes through the New Zealand region seasonally. It feeds on copepods, krill and schooling fish using baleen. It may skim near the surface or lunge-feed.

The southern sei whale is a Migrant nationally. Industrial whaling caused major declines. There is no dependable site. Rare encounters occur on Subantarctic expeditions and deep southern passages.