5 FACTS ABOUT RIGHT WHALES
It’s estimated that there are only 411 North Atlantic right whales left in the world. They were hunted to the brink of extinction, and despite being a protected species since the 1970s, their populations have struggled to rebound.
It is important that we work to protect and educate others about these incredible creatures.
Here are 5 fast facts about right whales:
NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALES GROW UP TO 55 FEET LONG
That's longer than your average school bus! 🚌 Weighing up to 70 tons, this whale can weigh as much as 35 cars. Known for their robust size, the right whale's build has been described as "stocky."
THEIR HEADS ARE ONE-THIRD OF THEIR BODY-LENGTH
Right whales are also known for their big heads, but it doesn't mean they're arrogant! 😉 They also have long, curved mouths that begin near their eyes.
THEY CAN EAT UP TO 2,500 POUNDS OF FOOD A DAY
That's more than the weight of two grand pianos! 😮 Right whales definitely have a big appetite, but their diet mainly consists of small crustaceans and shrimp-like animals. They use their baleen to filter food out from the water.
40% OF THEIR BODY WEIGHT IS BLUBBER
Blubber is a thick layer of fat located directly under the whale's skin. Right whales have no shortage of blubber and it all goes to good use! Blubber can help a whale store energy and stay warm in cold waters. 🌊
THEY CAN DIVE OVER 1,000 FEET UNDERWATER
That's about the length of 3 football fields! 🏈 They are able to travel to the depths of the sea because they can hold their breath for more than 40 minutes! They may travel far, but they don't travel fast! Their average speed is only 6 mph.
If you come across a North Atlantic right whale in the water, slow down and stay at least 500 yards away. Call (866) 755-6622 to report the sighting so other boaters can be alerted.
The future of the North Atlantic right whale may seem bleak, but conservation efforts and rethinking our relationship with the ocean may help save these amazing animals.
15% of your profits from our whale designs support right whale conservation. We’ve partnered with the Center for Coastal Studies up in Provincetown on the Whale Necklace and Whale Ring, and Whale and Dolphin Conservation on the Whale Clasp. Use code RIGHT to save 15% at capeclasp.com today!
