| Flukes: |
Flukes are occasionally raised before a dive. Tail stock is very thick. Flukes are elongate with a slight notch in the middle. |
| Dorsal fin: |
Dorsal fin is stubby and set far back on the body. Less prominent than on fin whales. |
| Flippers: |
Flippers are blue-gray. Long and slender. |
| Shape of head: |
Head is broad and flattened. Narrow in profile. Large splashguard. |
| Body: |
Streamlined body is extremely long. Back and flanks are dark bluish gray, mottled with paler gray blotches. Underside is white or pale blue-gray. |
| Blow: |
Tall, narrow blow up to 10m high. |
| Group size: |
Usually found singly or in paris, with larger groups at good feeding grounds. |
| Behaviour: |
Approachable, but swims rapidly if disturbed. Youngsters breach, but adults only rarely. When undisturbed, dives of 5-20 minutes may be followed by 12-18 blows at 10- to 20-second intervals. |
