When to Whale Watch in Alaska
Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Alaska. While some species of whales live year round in Alaskan waters, others migrate from warmer climates to feed during the summer months.
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Best Time To See Whales
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More whale sightings are reported in Alaska from May to November, with humpback whales being the most common. Other whales that are seen in Alaskan waters are Orcas, minke whales, gray whales and fin whales.
Humpback Whales
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Some humpback whales may be seen year round in Alaskan waters, but most migrate south during the months of December to March. Humpback whales give birth in the warmer waters of Hawaii, Central America, Mexico and Asia. They return with their calves to Alaskan waters in April, where they feed almost continuously on small fish, crustaceans and krill until November.
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Orcas
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Although Orcas are also called killer whales, they are not actually whales but are members of the dolphin family. Orcas live in Alaskan waters year around and eat a variety of fish and animals, including salmon and seals.
Gray Whales
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Gray whales are found in the shallow coastal waters near Alaska from late March or early April until Late October or early November. They migrate to their breeding grounds near Baja California in Mexico during the colder months and return with their calves to feed in Alaskan waters.
Other Whales
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Fin whales are the second largest species of whales in the world. They can grow to 75 feet long. They inhabit the deep, offshore waters of Alaska. Minke whales are smaller, only reaching 30 to 35 feet in length. They prefer to stay near the ice packs in the ocean.
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