|
| Distribution |
We are aware of at least three reports/records for NC -- a report of a group of six individuals seen during a 1992 vessel survey, off Cape Hatteras, in waters over 1,500 meters deep (Hanson et al., 1994), and two strandings, one each in Dare and Carteret counties.
Tropical and subtropical (i.e., warm) waters around the world, but most common in the Southern Hemisphere. In the United States, mainly off the southeastern and Gulf coasts, north to SC. |
| Abundance |
Thought to be rare across its range. Presumably very rare in NC waters, as the species ranges northward mainly to SC, and sparingly to NC. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History mammal collections (2014) lists two stranding records for NC. |
| Seasonal Occurrence |
Unknown. However, there are strandings for 30 May (1998) and 22 October (1982). Not known to be strongly migratory, and thus it might occur in NC waters for much or most of the year, though perhaps more likely in the warmer months. |
| Habitat |
Mainly in deeper waters (Continental Slope and farther at sea). Not well known off the US coast. |
| Behavior |
The species can occur in small groups, reportedly an average of about 25 individuals in a group. |
| Comments |
Not surprisingly, the IUCN considers this to be a Data Deficient species. Not only does it seem to be relatively rare, but it can be easily confused with the Melon-headed Whale. Note that the Pygmy Killer Whale, False Killer Whale, Killer Whale (Orca), the two pilot whales, and Melon-headed Whale are dolphins and not whales, despite the common name. |
| Origin |
Native |
| NC List |
Official |
 State Rank |
S1?M |
| State Status |
|
| Global Rank |
G4 |
| Federal Status |
|
| subspecies |
|
| other_comName |
|
| synonym |
|
