Short-finned Pilot Whale

Common name: Short-finned Pilot Whale.

Scientific name: Globicephala macrorhynchus (Gray, 1846)

Family: Delphinidae

Distribution and Habitat: Its presence in the region is common. It inhabits coastal and oceanic waters, generally occurring in tropical and warm temperate waters.

Description: Its colouration is dark grey to black, with a light spot behind the dorsal fin. It has a round head and no prominent beak, not too elevated and round dorsal fin located far forward on the body. These animals are more built than the other species of dolphins. It reaches 4,5 m in length and may weigh 2500 kg.

Conservation statute and Threats: Of little concern.

Observations: Groups with calves are frequently seen feeding, resting or socializing. This species uses the Madeira waters from January to February and April to October.