Sperm whales are easily recognized by their massive heads and prominent rounded foreheads. Sperm whales are characterized by their light grey color, white waxy film that covers their heads, a thick body that tapers at the tail and their lack of a dorsal fin.
Sperm whales are known to dive as deep as 3,280 feet in search of squid to eat. These giant mammals must hold their breath for up to 90 minutes on such dives. They are almost exclusively eat squid, bottom dwelling fish and including sharks, rays, cod and hake.
Sperm whales are usually found in deep oceanic waters, but can be observed closer to shore around islands or areas where underwater canyons or a narrow continental shelf provide deep water nearshore habitat.