Guide to Identification of Whales

On the pages for Blue, Fin, Sei and Sperm Whales, there are links to surface sequence animations.
These will open in a separate window with each animation being about 120kB. While it is loading the image may appear jerky. Once it has played through, it will run smoothly. You will need a Flash viewer to see the images which is usually included with your Windows CD. Otherwise, you can download a copy of the viewer from here:

It is not possible to show all surfacing characteristics. It should therefore be noted that the animations only represent typical examples of surfacing behaviour and identification and that in many cases, animals will not be so simple to identify.
In addition, characteristics often vary from animal to animal and according to conditions at sea. Characteristics such as those explained below are useful, but also misleading at certain times. If in any doubt, a supposed identification with a supporting detailed description is far more useful than either no identification at all, or a potential misidentification. If possible, the best rule of thumb is to record a combination of features rather than rely on just one or two.

1. Whale Blows Blow height varies and is not generally considered to be a reliable primary identification feature for whales. Blow height may decrease the longer the whale is at the surface. It may also be affected by the wind and waves. For example, distant baleen whales in a Force 5 may be mistaken for Sperm Whales as the spout is blown to one side.
2. Colour Perceived colour varies depending mainly on light conditions. There is also evidence that beaked whales such as Cuvier's Beaked Whales may actually change colour dependent on their activity and the amount of blood coursing through their blubber. They may appear grey or red for example.
3. Surfacing Behaviour This is one of the few available features for certain species such as Sei Whale. However, behaviour obviously varies considerably and it is best to observe animals for as long as possible to make sure that behaviour is consistent throughout the observation. Also, try to make a note of how the animal is behaving. For example, is it simply travelling (in which case it is unlikely to dive steeply) or does it dive to feed after moving near the surface for some time.
4. Dorsal Fin Shape It is likely that dorsal fin shape does not vary much among most baleen whales, but it is a factor that should be taken into consideration when identifying them. If possible, look for other members of the pod to determine whether or not they all share the same shaped dorsal fin or whether they are different. At sea observations of beaked whales such as Sowerby's suggest that they seem to vary considerably.