Pygmy Sperm Whale
(Kogia breviceps)
Identity card
Taxonomy
Order: Odontocetes
Family: Kogiidae
Species: Kogia breviceps
Measurements
2.7 to 3.4 m, weighing 315 to 400 kg
Lifespan
17 to 23 years
IUCN status
Least Concern
(International Red List)
Data Deficient
(Martinique 2020 Red List)
Not Evaluated
(Guadeloupe 2022 Red List)
Habitat
The Pygmy Sperm Whale lives in deep waters (up to 600m deep) often near the continental shelf. It is found in tropical and warm temperate waters.
Reproduction
It can give birth to a calf every year after 9 to 12 months of gestation. Birth takes place in spring.
Diet
The Pygmy Sperm Whale is a carnivore and feeds on molluscs, fish and shellfish.
Morphological characteristics for distinction at sea
- Head: conical, with gill-like markings in the shape of a crescent between eyes and pectoral fins, small square rostrum, spout slightly skewed to the left
- Fins and flippers: small and curved dorsal fin situated 3/4 down the body, short and broad pectoral fins situated well to the front of the body, pale circular mark under and around the eye
- Colouring: steel grey back, pinkish white belly
Click on the link to see the Pygmy Sperm Whale:
Cachalot pygmée / Pygmy Sperm Whale (Kogia breviceps)
Maël Dewynter / CARI'MAM / Office français de la biodiversité
Cachalot pygmée / Pygmy Sperm Whale (Kogia breviceps)
Maël Dewynter / CARI'MAM / Office français de la biodiversité
Did you know?
The Pygmy Sperm Whale ejects a reddish-brown liquid from its anus when it feels threatened.