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| Gathering together with pilot whales |
The melon-headed whale aka melon-headed dolphin aka melon whale aka electra dolphin. It is closely related to the pygmy killer whale and the pilot whale and these species are collectively known as black fish, as their flesh is so high in myoglobin that the flesh has a deep black colour (see entry on pilot whales). They are commonly found in tropical seas but spend much of their time in very deep water and are seldom seen. They tend to live in pods of 10 - 14 individuals, though often gather in large group of between 100 and occasionally up to 1000 animals, sometimes stranding together. They grow up to 3 metres and live up to around 30 years. They are so gregarious that they often socialise with other species, especially Fraser's dolphins.
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| Spy-hopping |
Stranded whales have been found to have severe damage to their eardrums, which would be fatal for any cetacean. It is believed the only noise capable of doing such damage would be the sonic blasts made by oil exploration ventures. Time to stop using oil yet?
They are curious animals and are drawn to humans and to the noise of boats and can been seen 'spy hopping' - popping their heads above the surface for a quick look at what's going on around. Their diet consists mostly of squid. There is some excellent footage of a pod of electras here.
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