Equipa de Biólogos da Futurismo
Pygmy sperm whales
are slightly larger than their closely related dwarf sperm whales. They are
rarely seen at sea and are very difficult to identify. Even with stranded
individuals, genetic confirmation of the species is sometimes required. Of the
two species, pygmy sperm whales have a more squarish head and arched back. Pygmy sperm whales have been seen
travelling alone or in small groups of 6 – 7 individuals. Like dwarf sperm
whales they travel slowly at the surface and release a cloud of reddish-brown intestinal fluid if they are
startled.
occur in tropical to temperate zones around the world. They prefer areas of
deep water where they may dive to depths up to 300 m. Both sightings and strandings in the Azores are
rare and are usually difficult to confirm.
Length:
• Male: 2.7 m
• Female: 3.8 m
• Calf: 1.2 m
Weight:
• Female: 450 kg
• Calf: 55 kg
Global population: Unkown (population trend unknown)
Status: Data Deficient
Diet: Cephalopods, fish, crustaceans
Teeth: 24
– 32 in the lower jaw
Longevity: Unkown
Breeding age: Unkown
Gestation: 9 – 11 months
Nursing: 1 year
In other languages
Italian: Cogia di De Blainville
Dutch: Dwergpotvis
Swedish: Pygmé kaskelot
Norwegian: –
Equipa de Biólogos da Futurismo
Sandrina Rodrigues
