🐋 Grey Whale vs. Humpback Whale: Can You Spot the Difference?
Grey and humpback whales are both seasonal visitors to the Salish Sea, but they differ in appearance, behaviour, and how they interact with their environment. Learning to identify them adds depth to your wildlife experience and helps foster a greater appreciation for marine biodiversity.
🩶 Grey Whales
These bottom-feeding whales are often seen close to shore as they forage for food in shallow waters.
Identification Tips:
- Mottled grey skin with barnacles and orange whale lice
- No dorsal fin—instead, look for a series of small bumps or "knuckles" along the back
- Heart-shaped blow from their widely spaced blowholes
- Slower swimmers, often seen feeding close to the seafloor
Fun Fact: Grey whales complete one of the longest migrations of any mammal—up to 20,000 km round trip every year!
🖤 Humpback Whales
Known for their dynamic movements and complex vocalizations, humpbacks are frequently spotted in deeper waters.
Identification Tips:
- Dark body with long white pectoral fins and knobby bumps (tubercles) on the head
- A small, rounded hump in front of a stubby dorsal fin
- Tall, vertical blow that is bushier than a grey whale’s
- Often raise their tail flukes when diving—each with unique markings used for identification
Fun Fact: Humpbacks sing complex songs during the breeding season—some lasting up to 30 minutes!
Why It Matters
Understanding the differences between these species helps you connect more meaningfully with the wildlife in the Salish Sea. Our naturalists are always happy to share tips, answer questions, and help you observe respectfully and responsibly.
📍 Ready to test your whale ID skills?
Join us on a tour from Steveston, BC, and explore the diversity of the Salish Sea with small-group vessels and expert guides.
