The melon-headed whale, aka melon-headed dolphin, melon whale, electra dolphin, many-toothed blackfish, or little killer whale, is a dolphin not a whale, and can be found in the tropical and subtropical oceans around the world from 20°S – 20°N. Even though these oceanic mammals face the threats of overfishing, pollution, and climate change, these dolphins are still abundant and listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Their population trend is unknown.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Peponocephala electra
Weight: Up to 496 lbs.
Length: Up to 9 feet
Lifespan: Up to 45 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) Their closest relatives are the pilot whale and pygmy killer whale.
2.) Being very social, these critters can be seen in pods numbering up to 1,000 strong.
3.) They strengthen their bonds by touch. Touching flippers, for instance, is commonly seen.
4.) These dolphins will often socialize with pods of Fraser’s dolphins, pilot whales, and humpback whales.
5.) Melon-headed whales are nocturnal (active at night) with some late afternoon socializing.
But wait, there’s more on the melon-headed whale!
6.) When at the surface they engage in spy hopping (rising out of the water to check out the scenery and splashing down again).
7.) A group of dolphins is called a gam, herd, mod, pod, or school.
Did you know…?
Melon-headed dolphins are fast swimmers, particularly when threatened or startled.
8.) Small fish and squid are their prey of choice.
9.) Females undergo up to a 12 month gestation (pregnancy) that yields a single calf.
10.) The calf measures up to 3.3 feet and weighs in at about 33 lbs.
Now a Short Melon-Headed Whale Video!
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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN
Photo credit: Cyril di Bisceglie
