Key Identification Features
- Individual gray whales are typically identified by photographing their dorsal surface, then matching the unique scars and patches from parasites that have either fallen off or remain attached.
- Gray whales have two blowholes located on the top of their head, which can produce a distinctive heart-shaped blow at the water surface under calm wind conditions.
- Key features that set gray whales apart from other mysticetes include their baleen, which is colored cream, off-white, or blond, and is unusually short.
For instant identification in the field, use the iNature app — AI-powered, works offline.
