Minke are among the most common baleen whales, due in part to their adaptability to different marine environments.

While not currently endangered, they are threatened by commercial whaling in some countries and by entanglement in fishing gear.

As with other whale species, changes in the ocean environment affect their prey availability, which can impact their nutrition and breeding success.

Minke whales are known for their "breaching" behaviour when they jump out of the water and land back with a splash.