Southern right whales are massive baleen whales that travel between polar feeding grounds and temperate breeding waters. Divers occasionally encounter them in shallow coastal bays during calving and nursing season (June to November in the Southern Hemisphere), particularly off southern Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. They are unmistakable: jet-black bodies, stocky builds, and distinctive white callosities (rough patches) on the head. These whales feed by skimming krill-rich waters with their mouths open, then closing their baleen plates to filter prey. Approach slowly and respectfully; mothers with calves are protective.
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.