Brydes whale

Introduction: Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni) is not a deep diving whale, normally spending only 3 minutes under water. It is usually seen singly or in small groups of 2 or 3 individuals. Larger groups of between 6 to 8 form when feeding. This is an inquisitive animal,and will often approach boats, so look out for them on boat cruises from either Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Sandwich Harbour.

Distribution: Seen off the coast of Namibia and inshore in early winter, when shoals of small fish head to warmer waters and are greater in numbers than other times of the year.

Diet: Krill, squid and fish, including sardines and anchovies

Colouring: Bluish-grey body, with a lighter belly

Breeding: Females of about 10 years and over, give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of 12 months. Calves are suckled for almost a year with a calving interval of about 2 years.

Size: Length 13m. Weight 13t. Females are slightly larger than males. Calves are around 4m long