Scientific Literature: Searchable Database

Observation of a blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) feeding in coastal waters of Ecuador

Authors

Felix, F.; Botero, N.; Falconi, J.

Year

2007

Journal

Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals

Volume

6

Issue

2

Pages

193-197

Keywords

balaenoptera musculus, blue whale, Ecuador, feeding, Upwelling

Abstract

The presence of the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) in continental waters of Ecuador is known from only a few reports. Here we present photographic evidence of a blue whale feeding in costal waters of this country. The event occurred on 17 July 2007, 2nm west of Salinas, Santa Elena Peninsula (2°12’08"’S, 81°02’31"W). The whale was followed during 31 minutes aboard a whalewatching boat. At one point, the whale was observed moving fast at the surface and rolling over its right side with its mouth open. Although the type of food being consumed was not evident, the behavior is similar to that described as surface feeding on euphausiid swarms. Despite the intense whale research effort conducted over the past 15 years in coastal waters of Ecuador, this is the first time a blue whale is recorded in nearshore waters.
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