Sperm Whale

Physeter macrocephalus

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Cetacea · Physeteridae

About

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.

Fun Fact

Sperm whales have the largest brain of any animal that has ever lived (8 kg) and can dive to 2,250 metres — they produce clicks up to 236 decibels, the loudest sound made by any animal.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Deep open oceans

Diet

Carnivore

Lifespan

60-70 years

Threats

Ocean Pollution
Shipping Traffic
Illegal Wildlife Trade

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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