The Pygmy Sperm Whale is a small, poorly known whale that is actually one of the more frequently stranded cetaceans on Atlantic beaches despite being rarely observed at sea. When startled, it releases a dark reddish-brown fluid from its intestinal sac—a defense mechanism analogous to squid ink. Its underslung lower jaw and squarish head give it a shark-like profile unique among cetaceans.
Habitat
Offshore tropical and temperate oceanic waters
Diet
Squid, fish, and crustaceans from deep water
How common
Rare
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