Long-finned pilot whale

Globicephala melas

Occurring in

Mediterranean
North Atlantic
South Atlantic

0-1000m

DayAndNightActive

not endangered

Pilot whales live in very close family groups with a complex social structure. The animals communicate with many different clicks and whistles and often hunt together in groups. The body is dark gray to black with a lighter pattern on the chest.

Habitat

Open Water

Special Features

Pilot whales live in very close family groups with a complex social structure. The animals communicate with many different clicks and whistles and often hunt together in groups.

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Appearance

The body is dark gray to black with a lighter pattern on the chest. The head is round and bulbous, without a pronounced snout. The dorsal fin is curved and sits relatively far forward on the body.

Natural Enemies

Orcas and large sharks

Dangerous/Poisons

Not poisonous and harmless to humans.

Pro Tips

Pilot whales primarily feed on squid and can dive very deep. They often stay underwater for over 10 minutes.