Vast group of southern fin whales filmed feeding in Antarctica, sparking hope of recovery

Scientists say numbers of world's second-largest animal have slowly improved since 1970s whaling ban but sightings in Antarctic feeding grounds are rare

For the first time since whaling was banned, up to 150 southern fin whales have been filmed feeding together in a thrilling" Antarctic spectacle, hailed by scientists as a sign of hope for the world's second-biggest animal.

The ocean giants are second only to blue whales in length, with slender bodies that help them glide through the water at high speed.