Sperm Whales

Sperm whales are the largest toothed whales in the world. They have huge, block-shaped heads that make up about one-third of their body. Sperm whales are champion divers that hunt giant squid in the deep ocean. They have the biggest brain of any animal ever.

Deep Divers

Sperm whales can dive deeper than almost any other mammal. They can reach depths of over 7,000 feet. A single dive can last more than an hour. In the dark deep ocean, they use clicking sounds to find giant squid and other prey.

The Biggest Brain

A sperm whale's brain weighs about 17 pounds, making it the largest brain of any animal. Sperm whales are very social and live in groups. They communicate using patterns of clicks called codas. Different groups have their own special click patterns, like dialects.

Fun Facts

• Sperm whales can hold their breath for up to 90 minutes during deep dives.
• A sperm whale's brain is about six times heavier than a human brain.
• Sperm whales sleep vertically, floating straight up and down in the water.

Did You Know?

Sperm whales produce a waxy substance called ambergris that was once worth more than gold! It was used in making expensive perfumes.