A MASS STRANDING OF SPERM WHALES IN OREGON: SEX AND AGE COMPOSITION OF THE SCHOOL

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1986
Authors:Rice, DW, Wolman, AA, Mate, BR, Harvey, JT
Journal:Marine Mammal Science
Volume:2
Pagination:64-69
Date Published:1986
ISBN Number:1748-7692
Keywords:Physeter catodon
Abstract:

A school of 41 sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus, that stranded near the mouth of the Siuslaw River, Oregon (43°59′N, 124°08′W), on 16 June 1979 consisted of 13 males and 28 females. Their ages were estimated by assuming that each postnatal dentin layer represents one year. The males were all sub-adults, 9.3–11.5 m long and 14–21 yr old. The females were 9.3–11.4 m long, and 11 to about 58 yr old. Ten females were dissected; nine were sexually mature and three were carrying fetuses 2.64–4.62 m long. None of the 28 females was visibly lactating.

URL:http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-7692.1986.tb00027.x
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