The southern right whale can be distinguished from other whales by its V-shaped 'blow' and the callosities which appear on and around its head. Although many people mistake these callosities for barnacles and although barnacles and other sea life live on these patches on the whale's head, the callosities are actual outgrowths of tough skin which form different patterns on each individual and which are a useful form of identification. To hear a whale 'blow' is like hearing the breath of life. The blow is a cloud of vapour produced largely by condensation when warm breath comes into contact with cooler air. It also contains oily mucus from the respiratory tract of the whale.
Whales are large brained and sensitive creatures.
Strong bonds exist between females and their calves. In normal circumstances they are non-aggressive and gentle towards man. As yet, knowledge about whales and the role they play in the marine ecosystems is fragmentary. However initial benign research indicates that whales are of greater benefit alive than dead to man. For this reason, if for no other, they need our protection.