Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) is the most unique and world’s biggest toothed whale.it was named sperm because of waxy substance found in barrel-like organ called spermaceti inside the head.early whaler thought it’s kind of reproductive thing of the animal.
sperm whale’s blow hole is located left side of it’s head and therefore his spout not like other whales is aimed to the left and forward.fully grown sperm whale is about 50-55ft long and weigh about 30-35 tons.female sperm whale are much smaller than male one.
they are normally migrate as a pod but a solitary male sperm whale had seen several time in mirissa sri lanka. they are excellent deep divers and normally they can hold the breath around 90 minutes while catching their favorite foods, large squids & octopus.
sperm whale are spotted in mirissa and kalpitiya also in trincomalee. sightings are unpredictable and limited to 3-5 times per year.mostly in march and april sightings were recorded.
Name: Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus)
Length: 16-20 metres (53-66 feet)
Weight: 30000-35000kg
Location: Sub-Arctic and sub-Antarctic waters
Conservation status: Vulnerable
Diet: Mainly squid, but also fish, octopi, rays, and megamouth sharks
Appearance: Long, block-shaped head comprising up to 1/3 of the whale’s body, with grey or black skin
Most of the days Blue Whales are spotted just 5-10 nautical Miles away from the shore.only 2-3 blue whales are spotted in one spot,although they are living as group. actually they are living as a pod but with the size of blue whales and size of ocean it’s impossible observe within short time.once we are witnessed more than fifty blue whales just half an hour away from shore.