The Sei Whales or as scientists like to call it the Balaenoptera borealis has many unique features. This whale is very large in size. It is an endangered species to the federal status. The Sei Whale is found in waters all over the world, although it avoids tropical or polar regions. This whale is one of the fastest of all whales.

 

The Sei Whale reaches 20 to 25 feet in length. It can weigh up to 50 tons, making it the third largest whale in the world. Its V shaped waterspout can identify it. The body is dark gray with variable white patches all over the body. This whale is able to swim up to 40 miles per hour. They usually swim alone or in little groups with five or less.

 

This rorqual is a filter feeder, using its baleen plates to obtain its food by opening its mouth. Engulfing large amounts of the water containing the food, then straining the water out through the baleen traps any food items inside the mouth. The Sei Whale feeds near the surface of the ocean, swimming on its side through swarms of prey. Its average of food each day is 900 kilograms. This whale competes against sharks, fish and other whales for food.

 

In the summer they migrate to cooler waters. In winter they migrate to warmer waters. They do this to follow the food that they eat. Their food is more abundant in cooler arias in the summer, and warmer arias in the winter. Some may cross the equator and travel all the way north, and vice versa.

 

There are many characteristics about the Sei Whale that separates is from other whales. The V shaped waterspout mostly identifies it. The baleen traps help it the most with getting food. The Sei Whales large size doesn’t keep it from swimming fast. Even though the Sei Whales are considered endangered there are many things we can learn about them.

 

By: Brittney Maxwell

Published: 2/17/11