Beaked whales are a cetacean family that includes 21 species. Despite being the second largest Family, they are one of the least known. These strictly oceanic, deep diving whales have an inconspicuous surfacing behaviour and are hard to observe at sea.
The most commonly observed of this group is the Cuvier’s beaked whale.
©T. Jefferson
In the Azores, Beaked whales can be seen throughout the year. However, sightings confirmed as Cuvier’s beaked whales, are more abundant in July and August.
When at close range, the concave white head and small beak make this species one of the easiest of the group to identify. Furthermore, males have a small pair of teeth at the extremity of the lower jaw. Females and juveniles are effectively toothless as the teeth are concealed by the gum.
Male Cuvier’s Beaked whale ©M. Rosso – CIMA Foundation
Did you know ? Due to the lack of teeth, the capture cephalopods, fish and crustaceans is made by suction!
