NORTHERN BOTTLENOSE WHALE

Hyperoodon ampullatus

The northern bottlenose whale is one of the best studied species in the beaked whale family. This robust whale is characterised by a large bulbous forehead which is more pronounced in older males. As with other beaked whale species, northern bottlenose whales can dive to extensive depths (over 1,400 m) where they feed mainly on squid, but also crustaceans and echinoderms (such as starfish and sea cucumbers). At a distance they can be mistaken for sperm whale because they have a similar blow which is inclined to the front left of the whale. Northern bottlenose whales are restricted to the north Atlantic, mainly in the cooler waters. They have been observed around the Azores, but not on regular basis. Here they are usually seen in groups of 4 – 20 individuals and are often very inquisitive towards boats.