top of page
SPERM WHALE
Physeter Macrocephalus
Order
Odontoceti
Family
Physeteridae
Sperm whales live up to about 70 years, measure between 9 - 20 meters, and weigh between 10 and 57 tons. They feed on cephalopods, octopuses, and squids hunted at great depths (between 500 and 2000 meters).
The distribution of sperm whales is worldwide. They live primarily in deep waters. Females and young ones stay in warm waters, while adult males live in cold waters. The latter return to warm waters to breed between January and May.
Male sperm whales reach sexual maturity around 20 years of age, while females reach it at around 7 years. The gestation period lasts about 15 months, and the female gives birth to a single calf every 3 to 6 years.
- Source : AGOA
Head
Square
Fin
No dorsal fin, but a series of humps extending to the tail.
Blow
Leaning on its left side
Swimming sequence
Typical surface behavior 'driftwood'.
Coloration
Dark grey to black coat, 'wrinkled' skin.
bottom of page