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Blue Whale

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 70-90 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 24-30 meters (79-98 feet)
  • Weight: Around 100-150 tons (200,000-300,000 lbs)
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Found in the Indian Ocean, particularly off the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
  • Habitat: Prefers deep ocean waters but can often be seen closer to shore in areas with abundant krill and other prey.
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Diet
  • Krill: Tiny shrimp-like crustaceans that form the bulk of their diet.
  • Small Fish: Occasionally consumed along with krill.
  • Copepods: Small crustaceans that are also part of their diet.
Blue Whales

The Blue Whale is the largest animal ever known to have existed, inhabiting the deep blue waters around Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its immense size and graceful presence in the ocean.

Physical Characteristics: Blue Whales can reach lengths of up to 30 meters (98 feet) and weigh as much as 200 tons. Their long, streamlined bodies are bluish-grey with lighter underbellies, and they have small dorsal fins positioned near their tails. The skin often appears mottled due to patterns of lighter spots.

Habitat: These majestic creatures are found in oceans worldwide, favoring deep, open waters. Around Sri Lanka, Blue Whales are often seen in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, especially off the southern coast near Mirissa, making it a prime location for whale watching.

Diet: The diet of the Blue Whale primarily consists of krill, which are small shrimp-like crustaceans. During feeding season, a Blue Whale can consume up to 4 tons of krill per day. They filter these tiny creatures through their baleen plates by taking in large volumes of water and then expelling it, trapping the krill inside.

Behavior: Blue Whales are typically solitary or found in small groups. They communicate using deep, resonant calls that can travel long distances underwater. These vocalizations are used for navigation, mating, and maintaining contact with other whales. Despite their size, Blue Whales are known for their graceful swimming and can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Blue Whale is classified as Endangered (EN) due to past extensive whaling. Although commercial whaling has significantly decreased, Blue Whales continue to face threats from ship strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these gentle giants and ensure their survival.

Lifespan: In the wild, Blue Whales have an estimated lifespan of 70-90 years, though some individuals may live over 100 years.