The minke whale is the most abundant species of whale seen in the inshore waters of Scotland. It reaches lengths of up to 10m (32ft). They have a pointed head, two blowholes, a small curved dorsal fin and white bands on their pectoral fins. Minke whales are the most likely of all whales to be seen at close quarters as they are curious about boats and will even approach a moving vessel.

The smallest of the rorqual family, minke whales are currently the only whales still openly being commercially hunted, though not in Scottish waters. Their body length averages 7 to 10 metres and they weigh in at up to 10 tonnes. Minke whales are largely dark in colour with white undersides and have pointed heads. They may have a white band on the flippers and the dorsal fin is high and curved. Minke whales feed on fish and krill, travelling singly or in groups of 2 to 4 individuals. The breeding period for minke whales is from December to May.