The largest toothed predator on Earth, with the largest brain of any animal that has ever existed. They dive nearly 7,000 feet to hunt giant squid in total darkness, holding their breath for 90+ minutes.

Also called: Cachalot

Native status: Native; cosmopolitan

§ Quick facts

SizeMales 16–20 m (52–66 ft); females 11–13 m (36–43 ft)
WeightMales 35–57 metric tons; females 14–18 metric tons
LifespanUp to 70 years
OrderCetacea
FamilyPhyseteridae

§ Encyclopedia

The sperm whale or cachalot is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed predator. It is the only living member of the genus Physeter and one of three extant species in the sperm whale superfamily Physeteroidea, along with the pygmy sperm whale and dwarf sperm whale of the genus Kogia.

Source: Wikipedia — Sperm whale Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive square head holding the largest brain of any animal (8 kg). Distinctively forward-and-leftward angled blow.

Similar species. Pygmy and Dwarf Sperm Whales (much smaller). Other large whales (none have the square head).

Voice. Loud "clicks" (over 230 dB — the loudest animal sound) used in echolocation. Coda click patterns identify individuals and pods.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Almost exclusively cephalopods, especially giant and colossal squid hunted in the deep ocean.

Behavior. Deepest-diving mammal — verified dives over 2,250 m (7,400 ft) and 90 minutes. Dives in pursuit of giant squid. Lives in matrilineal pods.

§ Range

All deep oceans worldwide

§ Habitat

Deep open ocean, often near continental shelf drop-offs

§ Threats

Whaling legacy (populations still recovering), ship strikes, ocean noise from sonar and shipping.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the sperm whale is currently classified as Vulnerable.

§ What helps

Reduce shipping demand by buying local. Support quieter ship designs. Choose ethical ecotourism.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Whale and Dolphin Conservation
  • NOAA Fisheries
  • The Dominica Sperm Whale Project
  • IUCN Red List 2008