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What is a Gray Whale?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

The gray whale, Eschrichtius robustus, is a migratory whale that maintains populations in the eastern and western coastal Pacific Ocean. A third population once existed in the North Atlantic Ocean, but became extinct due to overhunting. The gray whale spends much of its life traveling between breeding grounds in winter and feeding grounds in summer.

Genetically related to blue whales and humpback whales, the gray whale is distinct in its gray and white coloring and lack of a dorsal fin. Although dark gray in color, the whales are marked with white scar patterns left by parasites. Adult male animals are about 45-46 ft (13.7-14 m) in length and weigh around 30-40 tons (27,200-36,300 kg.) Females are slightly larger than males. A newborn calf is about 15 ft (4.5 m) long and usually weighs between 1,000 and 1,500 lbs (500-680 kg.)

Gray whales are genetically related to humpback whales.
Gray whales are genetically related to humpback whales.

The California gray whale of the Eastern Pacific maintains a predictable migratory pattern followed closely by whale-watching fans. In October of each year, the whales swim south from the Alaska area, averaging 80 miles per day (120 km.) By March, most of the population reaches Baja, California, where the gray whale calving lagoons are located. In these protected lagoons, whales mate and give birth until April or May, before beginning their northward trek back to the feeding grounds of Alaska. The yearly journey is 10,000-14,000 miles (16,000-22,530 km) long, believed to be the longest migratory pattern of any mammal.

Killer whales actively hunt gray whale mothers and their calves as they migrate.
Killer whales actively hunt gray whale mothers and their calves as they migrate.

Grey whale mothers travel with their newborn calves, after the babies have formed sufficient blubber layers to sustain them in colder waters. The trip north is dangerous for calves, as sharks and killer whales actively hunt them. Mother whales are noted to be particularly aggressive protectors, which originally lead to them being classified as dangerous and commonly called “devil fish.”

Sharks prey on gray whales.
Sharks prey on gray whales.

The history of human interaction with gray whales is not a pleasant one, with whaling being a key factor in the extinction of the Atlantic populations. When the calving lagoons of Baja were first discovered in 1857, the breeding and birthing animals were slaughtered by the hundred. In 1949, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) banned commercial hunting of gray whales, and the Eastern Pacific population has recovered, despite continued hunting by some Native American and Russian groups. The Western Pacific population is believed by experts to remain in critical danger of extinction, with only 100-300 animals surviving.

The survival of gray whales is based mostly on the redefinition of whales as a protected species. The whale watching industry and animal rights groups continue to stress the importance of ensuring the survival of cetacean creatures as part of the ocean’s food chain. Because of the tremendous recovery of the California population of gray whales, the IWC has faced mounting pressure to allow commercial hunting of the animals once more. Although the gray whale is again flourishing in the coastal waters of North America, its future remains uncertain in the wake of hunting legislation and possible climate change.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Gray Whale?

A Gray Whale is a baleen whale known for its gray color and distinctive mottled skin. These marine mammals are famous for their long migrations, traveling up to 12,000 miles round-trip from their feeding grounds in the Arctic to breeding lagoons in Baja California, Mexico. They play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, stirring up the ocean floor while feeding and providing nutrients.

How large do Gray Whales get?

Gray Whales are impressive in size, with adults typically reaching lengths of 40 to 50 feet and weighing up to 40 tons. Their size is comparable to a school bus, making them one of the larger species of whales. Despite their bulk, they are known for their gentle nature and curiosity towards humans.

What do Gray Whales eat?

Gray Whales are bottom feeders, primarily consuming small crustaceans such as amphipods and tube worms. They feed by turning on their sides and scooping up sediments from the sea floor, filtering their food through their baleen plates. This unique feeding behavior is essential for maintaining the health of benthic ecosystems.

Are Gray Whales endangered?

Gray Whales were once considered endangered due to whaling, but conservation efforts have led to a significant recovery. According to the International Whaling Commission, the Eastern North Pacific population is no longer endangered, although the Western North Pacific population remains at risk with only a few hundred individuals left.

How do Gray Whales communicate?

Gray Whales communicate using a range of sounds including moans, groans, and rumbles. These vocalizations can be complex and are thought to be used for navigation, locating each other, and maintaining social structures within pods. Their calls can travel long distances underwater, facilitating communication over vast expanses of the ocean.

What threats do Gray Whales face?

Despite their recovery, Gray Whales still face several threats, including entanglement in fishing gear, ship strikes, and habitat degradation. Climate change is also a concern, as it affects the availability of their prey in Arctic feeding grounds. Conservationists continue to monitor these threats to ensure the species' long-term survival.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a AllThingsNature writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a AllThingsNature writer.

Learn more...

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    • Gray whales are genetically related to humpback whales.
      By: s1000rr
      Gray whales are genetically related to humpback whales.
    • Killer whales actively hunt gray whale mothers and their calves as they migrate.
      By: desertsolitaire
      Killer whales actively hunt gray whale mothers and their calves as they migrate.
    • Sharks prey on gray whales.
      By: Christopher Bartlett
      Sharks prey on gray whales.