Sperm Whale

Sperm Whale

Physeter macrocephalus

Vulnerable
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DESCRIPTION

The Sperm Whale is the largest toothed whale, easily recognized by its enormous, block-shaped head which can be up to one-third of its body length and houses the spermaceti organ. These deep-diving carnivores primarily hunt squid, including giant and colossal species, along with fish, sharks, and octopuses, often descending to extreme depths of over 3,000 meters. They exhibit a complex social structure where females and juveniles form stable, matrilineal groups, while mature males often lead solitary lives or form bachelor pods, venturing to higher latitudes outside of breeding seasons.

Max Length 20.7 m
Max Weight 70 t
Lifespan Up to 77 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, deep water, and open water
Depth Range 0 - 3219 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Sperm Whale

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Sperm Whale

Range

Where Sperm Whale has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Sperm Whale

Where can you see the Sperm Whale?

The Sperm Whale can be seen at 14 dive destinations in Mexico, Ecuador, South Africa, Bahamas, and Maldives. The best spots include Revillagigedo Islands (Mexico), Socorro Islands (Mexico), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Andros Barrier Reef (Bahamas), and Baja California Sur (Mexico).

Where can you see the Sperm Whale in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Sperm Whale at Revillagigedo Islands, Socorro Islands, Baja California Sur, and Isla Mujeres.

Where can you see the Sperm Whale in Ecuador?

In Ecuador, you can see the Sperm Whale at Galapagos Islands, Gordon Rocks, Kicker Rock, and Punta Vicente Roca.

Where can you see the Sperm Whale in South Africa?

In South Africa, you can see the Sperm Whale at Aliwal Shoal, False Bay, and Protea Banks.

How big does the Sperm Whale get?

The Sperm Whale can reach up to 20.7 m in length and 70 t in weight.

What habitat does the Sperm Whale live in?

The Sperm Whale is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, deep water, and open water.

How deep does the Sperm Whale live?

The Sperm Whale lives from the surface down to 3219 m.

What does the Sperm Whale eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Sperm Whale most active?

Active in irregular bursts around the clock, by day and by night alike. There is no single best hour to look for it.

How long does the Sperm Whale live?

The Sperm Whale lives up to 77 years.

What is the conservation status of the Sperm Whale?

The Sperm Whale is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Sperm Whale. Spotted something that looks off?

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