Newfoundland and Labrador
Sperm whales/Cachalot macrocépale


Sperm whale: 13 meters; 28 tons

The largest of the toothed whales is often referred to as "Moby Dick." Located at the front of its head, the single blowhole sends a slanted 5-meter misty spray out 45 degrees from its body. Its massive square head and the series of bumps that replace its dorsal fin easily identify the sperm whale (Physeter catadon). It is slate gray. Sperm whales, like the humpback, will throw their tails high into the air when diving. They are found offshore hunting for squid in deep water, but occasionally can be seen inshore singly or in small groups.

Cachalot macrocépale (Physeter macrocephalus)
Taille: 11 à 15 m, jusqu'à 18 m
Poids: 15 000 à 40 000 kg, jusqu'à 50 000 kg
Mode de vie: Grégaire, parfois les mâles voyagent en solitaire.
Longévité: 50 à 70 ans
Observations: Rares dans le Saint-Laurent
Notes: On l'a chassé intensivement pour son huile, pour le précieux ambre gris, pour le spermaceti et pour l'ivoire de ses dents. Le célèbre Moby Dick était un cachalot albinos.

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