Teacher Resources > Facts about Dolphins & Whales > Facts about Curvier's beaked whales

Facts about Curvier's beaked whales

Factfile


Scientific Name: Ziphuis cavirostris
Family: Ziphiidae
Range: Widespread in Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans
Habitat: Oceanic and coastal waters close to steep gradients such as underwater canyons
Status: Unknown
Population: Unknown
Diet: Mid-water or deepwater squid, fish and crustaceans
Length: 5.5-7m
Weight 2.2-3.3 tons


Identification


 Flukes: Broad with no or small notch in the middle. Trailing edges are slightly concave
 Dorsal fin:
 Set well behind the center of the body. Trailing edge in usually indented, but occasionally straight, and the tip is slightly rounded
 Flippers: Small, with convex trailing edges and rounded tips
 Shape of head:
 Short, slightly upturned beak. Mostly cream coloured in front of the eyes, and behind the head in old males. Two teeth usually visible at the tip of the lower jaw in adult males
 Body: Colour varies from rusty brown to dark grey, underside often slightly darker. Adults may appear mottled because of circular or oval scars from cookie-cutter sharks or lampreys
 Blow: Low, bushy and indistinct 
 Group size:
 Typically in groups of 2-7, occasionally up to 25. Older males tend to be more solitary 
 Behaviour: Sometimes curious. Dives typically last between 20 and 40 minutes, usually arches back steeply when diving. Occasionally projects head at a shallow angle above the water or breaches near vertical 
Donate
Report a Stranding
Become a Marine Mammal Medic
Like us on Facebook
About our company
Enter a succinct description of your company here		 Contact Us
Enter your company contact details here