Shepherd's Beaked Whale

About this species

Size

Length 6–7 m

Habitat

Deep cool-temperate ocean

Range

Surrounding seas

Tasmacetus shepherdi is a rarely seen beaked whale with a full row of functional teeth. That dentition separates it from most beaked whales, which retain only one or two erupted pairs. It has a long beak, steep forehead and a small dorsal fin set far back. The dark back contrasts with pale flanks and underside.

It is known mainly from cool Southern Hemisphere waters, including New Zealand. Sightings are scarce and many records come from strandings. It dives deeply and takes fish as well as squid. Little is known about group size or breeding behaviour.

The New Zealand classification is Data Deficient. No dependable viewing site exists; Te Papa in Wellington holds important scientific material.

Description: Wildlife of New Zealand guide, Wildlife of Everywhere (wildlifeofeverywhere.com)