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| Distribution |
In NC, only one definite record, a stranding in Dare County in 1994. However, there are three observational reports in offshore waters. Considered an accidental or casual stray, well to the south of the usual range.
Found only in the northern Atlantic Ocean, south regularly to about Newfoundland, and in winter south to NY. |
| Abundance |
Accidental in NC, with just one definite record. Fairly common to perhaps common in the main part of its range, and fairly easy to observe. |
| Seasonal Occurrence |
More likely to stray into NC waters in winter or very early spring. However, the only known state record was of one stranding on 27 October 1994. The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History database (2016) lists three records as 'Hyperoodon ? ampullatus'; these are for 30 May 1994, 26 July 1982, and 16 May 1981. |
| Habitat |
Strongly favors cold waters. |
| Behavior |
Typically occurs in fairly small groups, up to about 10 individuals. It is considered to be rather curious of boats. Considerably easier to observe than most other beaked whale species. |
| Comments |
This species has been heavily impacted by commercial whaling operations; though such operations have ceased in the past few decades, it still has not recovered from former numbers. There are photographs reported for the 1982 and 1994 reports, but as the NMNH database lists the species with a '?', it appears these are not confirmed. As a result, these three reports from offshore are not added to the website and shown on the range map. |
| Origin |
Native |
| NC List |
Official |
 State Rank |
SUM |
| State Status |
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| Global Rank |
G4 |
| Federal Status |
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