Long-Finned Pilot Whale

Background

Unlike their name suggests, the Long-Finned Pilot Whale is in fact a species of dolphin. They are are strikingly similar Short-Finned Pilot Whales with experts even struggling to indentify the two species.

Habitat

The Long-Finned Pilot Whale is found throughout the Northern Atlantic and the sub-polar region of Antarctica.

Diet

The majority of their diet consists of squid and fish, but the are known to eat smaller invertebrates such as shrimp.

Predators & Threats

Killer whales, large sharks (primarily great whites), and humans are the pilot whales only predators. Plastic litter is however a growing threat, with dolphins accidentally ingesting bags mistaken for squid and jellyfish.

Facts

• The Long-Finned Pilot Whale can dive upto 500m when in search for food.
• They are the second largest species of dolphin, with the Killer Whale being the only larger species.

Best Time to Look

All year round