General Description

Variable colouration, including yellow-grey to dark brown with pale grey to white face and beak. White oval scars are sometimes present across the body. Up to 7 m long.

Biology

Cuvier's Beaked Whales are often found in small pods of around 15 individuals. Breeding occurs year-round.

Habitat

Tropical to polar offshore waters, to depths greater than 200 m.

Open water

Distribution guide

Worldwide. Most Australian waters. Potentially near Port Phillip, recorded from Victoria.

Species Group

Mammals › Whales and dolphins

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

Surface Midwater

Max Size

7 m

Diet

Carnivore

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Conservation Status

• CITES : Trade restrictions (Appendix II)
• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Least concern