Bowhead Whales

Bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) are an icon of the Arctic seas. These large whales, also known as "Arctic whales" or "right whales," can reach lengths of up to 50-60 feet and weigh up to 70-90 tons, making them the second largest whale species. They have a thick layer of blubber and a unique head shape that gives them their name. Bowhead whales travel in large pods and feed primarily on copepods, shrimp-like krill, and benthic crustaceans. They are an important species in the Arctic ecosystem and have been part of the Arctic people’s culture and subsistence way of life for centuries. Today, bowhead whales are a species at risk and are protected in many areas of the Arctic.