Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Northern right whale fin

Scientific name: Balaenoptera borealis


Northern right whale fin

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Family: BALAENOPTERIDAE

Group: Marine mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 50 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01-31.12

Gestation: 300 à 400 jours

Births: 31.12-15.01


Habitat:
Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

Description:
The Northern right whale fin is a large baleen whale that primarily lives in the cold waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is one of the largest cetaceans, characterized by its streamlined body and fast swimming. Unlike other whales, it prefers deeper waters and is less often observed near the coast. The Northern right whale fin is threatened by pollution, underwater noise, and ship collisions, and is classified as vulnerable due to past commercial whaling.

Recommended lens:
>=300 mm

Photography tips:
Photograph the Northern right whale fin using a telephoto lens to capture its massive silhouette at sea. Be patient, as these whales are often difficult to spot. The best times for photography are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is softer and the whales are more visible at the surface. Use long focal length lenses to take respectful photos without disturbing the animal.

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