ENVIRONMENT YUKON
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Bowhead Whale
Balaena mysticetus
Order | Cetacae |
Family | Balanidae |
USGov - NOAA
Also known as: Arctic Right Whale, Polar Whale, Greenland Right Whale
Fast Facts |
Distribution in Yukon | |
Length | 20 m | ![]() |
Weight | 75-100 tonnes | |
Lifespan | 60-100 years | |
Habitat | ![]() |
|
Predators | Humans, Orcas | |
Yukon | S3 (Vulnerable) | |
Global | G3 (Vulnerable) | |
Yukon population estimate: Not determined |
Description
- Large robust body,
- Smooth back with no dorsal fin
- Large head with strongly bowed lower jaw
- Long baleen “teeth”
Behaviour
The Bowhead Whale is social and non–aggressive usually travelling alone or in groups of up to six. It is a slow swimmer and can stay submerged for up to 40 minutes but is not thought to be a deep diver. It is highly vocal and will sometimes display breeching, tail slapping, and spyhopping.
Diet
Crustaceans (e.g. plankton)
Sights and sounds
Alternative content - radio interview |
Sound Singing |
Mammals and People
- Because they are slow moving, Bowheads were easy targets for whalers.
- Blubber was rendered into oil for use in street lamps, lubricants, tanning and steel tempering until commercial whaling was ended during the 20th century.
- Baleen was used for hair brushes, typewriter springs, umbrella ribs, fishing rods, and corsets until whaling became unprofitable in the 20th century.
- Herschel Island became a whaling base until the early 1900’s.
- They are protected from commercial whaling, with some subsistence harvest allowed for Inuit people.
Viewing Opportunities
- Bowheads are usually seen far off Yukon’s north shore in late July through September.