Pilot Whale

Photo: NOAA
Photo: NOAA 
  • Scientific Name: Globicephala sp.
  • Length: 19 – 25 feet
  • Weight: up to 2.5 tons
  • Population*: Over 30,000
  • Status: Protected
  • Description:  Large bulbous head with a thick, broad dorsal fin one-third of the way down the back. Name is derived from their long, sickle-shaped pectoral fins. Usually black in coloration, but can appear brown or dark gray. Known to associate with other dolphin species and sometimes even sharks.

* Western North Atlantic Population of Long Finned and Short Finned Pilot Whale Species

Photo:  NOAA/BOEM
Photo: NOAA/BOEM
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