Mesoplodon bidens (Sowerby's Beaked Whale)
Sowerby's beaked whale is the most northernly dstributed of the Atlantic Mesoplodon species, with most records above 30 degrees north in northern Europe, hence the high incidence of strandings records in the northern UK. As with other members of this family, the species occurs in deep waters beyond the continental edge. Sightings in Hebridean waters are rare and almost all of the records for Outer Hebrides are of stranded animals
Additional Information
Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust
Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit
EC CITES Annex A
Bern Convention Appendix 2
EU Habitats Directive Annex 4
Scottish Biodiversity List of species of principal importance for biodiversity conservation
A member of the beaked whale family with the characteristic V-shaped crease on the throat and the short dorsal fin set relatively far back. The forehead rises at a shallow angle and has a slight bump. It has a distinct beak and the mouthline is curved down at rear.Sowerby's beaked whale has a charcoal grey dorsal and lateral colouration with a lighter belly. Adults may also have light grey spots on the body and are often covered with scratches and scars.
Identifying features
Up to 5.5 m in length.
Small dorsal fin two-thirds down the body.
Distinct, relatively long beak.
Small head with shallow rising forehead with a small bump.
Pair of V-shaped throat grooves.
Mouthline curved down at the rear.
Morvan Barnes 2008. Mesoplodon bidens. Sowerby's beaked whale
