Long-finned Pilot Whale [Globicephala melas]
Description
The long-finned pilot whale is a large species of dolphin. It is distinguished by its long, slim pectoral fins, and a bulbous forehead. The body is mostly dark grey to black in color, with a lighter patch behind the dorsal fin, and often with a grey or white anchor-shaped patch on the belly. This species has a wide distribution in cold and temperate waters of both hemispheres, though they are not often seen in the Arctic or the Antarctic. They are known for their strong social structure and have been observed to care for sick or injured members. Their diet primarily consists of squid and fish.
Where To See Long-finned Pilot Whale
Sipadan Drop Off
Sipadan Island
, Malaysia
Turtle Cavern
Sipadan Island
, Malaysia
White Tip Avenue
Sipadan Island
, Malaysia
Coral Garden
Sipadan Island
, Malaysia
South Point
Sipadan Island
, Malaysia
San Benedicto Island
Socorro Island
, Mexico
El Canyon
Socorro Island
, Mexico
The Boiler
Socorro Island
, Mexico
Gladden Spit
Placencia
, Belize
Darwin's Arch
Galápagos Islands
, Ecuador
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Fish, Sharks & Rays (plus Sea Turtles & Whales)
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Mammals
Mammalia
|
| Order |
Whales, Dolphins & Porpoises (Cetaceans)
Cetartiodactyla
|
| Family |
Ocean Dolphins
Delphinidae
|
| Genus |
Pilot Whales
Globicephala
|
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