Dwarf Sperm Whales, scientifically known as Kogia sima, are small cetaceans belonging to the family Kogiidae. They are the smallest member of the sperm whale group, measuring approximately 2.7 to 3.7 meters in length and weighing around 400 to 600 kilograms. These whales are known for their robust and stocky bodies with a blunt, rounded snout.
Dwarf Sperm Whales are predominantly found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They typically inhabit deep offshore waters, near continental slopes or underwater canyons. These whales are known to be elusive and often avoid boats, making them difficult to study and observe in the wild.
The most distinctive feature of Dwarf Sperm Whales is their spermaceti organ, located in their forehead, which is significantly smaller compared to their larger relatives. This organ is believed to play a role in buoyancy control. They have a single blowhole, which is positioned slightly left of the centerline, resulting in a bushy and slightly slanted blow when they surface to breathe.
Dwarf Sperm Whales primarily feed on cephalopods, such as squid and octopus, though they may also consume some small fish. They are known to perform deep dives, lasting several minutes, in search of food. These whales have been observed to be relatively solitary creatures, occasionally forming small groups consisting of a mother and her calf.
Although the population status of Dwarf Sperm Whales is poorly understood, they are currently listed as "Data Deficient" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They face threats from entanglement in fishing gear, climate change, habitat degradation, and accidental ship strikes.
