02.12.2021 – Prepare and dive

The Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) of our sighting today perfectly showed a submersion process. But before they disappear into the depths, they need to prepare well. The whale breathes intensely, with an oxygen utilization of approx. 90%, which is enriched in the myoglobin-containing muscles and the blood. Myoglobin is a spherical protein that can absorb and release oxygen. It is responsible for transporting oxygen in the body. Shortly before the actual submersion process, the Sperm whale arches its back, it almost looks as if he is now going down. Far from it, because he comes up again, inhales, then exhales. Exhaling the oxygen is important as he is now moving into areas of high pressure. So the lungs are relieved. Only then does he majestically raise his tail. This is the start signal for a long dive. Head pointing downwards, he can now sink in ease into the deep blue.

Today we saw submersion process twice. If you look at the two tails, you can see that they are very different. Sperm whales are identified by their tail.

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

10:00 Sperm whales