The Dwarf Sperm Whale is the smallest of all whales. making it
smaller than the bigger dolphins.
The species makes slow, deliberate movements with little splash
or blow and will usually lie motionless
when at the sea's surface. Consequently it can be observed
only in very calm seas.

The Dwarf Sperm Whale is physically very similar to, and has the same
behavioural characteristics as, its cousin the Pygmy Sperm Whale.
Identification may be close to impossible at sea – however,

the Dwarf is slightly smaller and has a considerably larger dorsal fin.
The body is mainly bluish grey with a lighter underside with slightly yellow
vein-like streaks possibly visible. There is a white false gill behind each eye.
The flippers are very short and broad.
The top of the snout overhangs the lower jaw, which is small.

There has been debate and differing opinion as to the correct classification
of the Pygmy and Dwarf Sperm Whales (see sperm whale family for details).
The two were widely considered to be the same species, until 1966, when a scientist
at the Smithsonian Institution definitively diagnosed them as separate species

Facts