The Environmental Record

PRESENTS

A World Whale Day Special

 

Pygmy Killer Whales (Feresa attenuata)

 

Written by Katelin Kukk

Photograph by Dave Fleetham

 

 

The pygmy killer whale, also known as the slender pilot whale, is not actually a whale, but a small member of the dolphin family. They are often confused with false killer whales because of their similar appearance. Pygmy killer whales inhabit tropical and subtropical deep waters but are naturally rare because they are never seen by the coast. In the United States, they can be found around Hawaii, the Western North Atlantic, and the Northern Gulf of Mexico. Not much is known about them due to their scarcity, but researchers hope to discover more.

Feresa attenuata can grow up to 8.5 feet long and weigh around 490 pounds. They have a small head with a rounded melon that extends slightly past their mouth. The body is primarily dark grey or black, with unique white markings on its lip and belly. Their bone structure is very distinct as well. Their mandibles are hollow, and the left side is larger, including an additional tooth. This asymmetry places pygmy killer whales among the other odontocete whales with their uneven skulls. They also possess a large dorsal fin, long pointed pectoral fins, and a mouth full of sharp teeth well-suited for capturing and eating prey.  

Although they mainly eat squid and fish, pygmy killer whales tend to feast on the occasional dolphin as well. They are usually found in pods and prefer to be more social than independent. You’ll often see them swimming slowly and seemingly carefree in the ocean, frequently engaging in a behavior called “logging”. They rest at the surface while all floating in the same orientation. They don’t breach often, but they can become playful. They will travel in short, fast bursts and occasionally leap out of the water. While they generally avoid ships, they may play in the waters nearby if there is a good wake.

One of the threats pygmy killer whales face is net entanglement, especially commercial fishing gear like gill nets. When they become trapped, they can suffer serious injuries or even death. Another threat is ocean noise pollution. Most of this noise is caused by human activities like military sonar or industrial operations. This noise can interrupt their communication, feeding, migrating, and social behavior. Some research has shown that it will also alter behavior and increase stress hormones. Fortunately, pygmy killer whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

So, on this day, World Whale Day, let us honor pygmy killer whales and all their unique qualities. These intelligent and social animals play an important role in balancing marine ecosystems. By supporting conservation efforts and spreading awareness, we can make a difference. If we work together to respect and care for our oceans, we can ensure the pygmy killer whales and other whales, porpoises, and dolphins continue to thrive.

 

 

World Whale Day

2026

 

Keep Swimming!

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