Pilot whales belong to a group of cetaceans known as the 'blackfish', which are actually dolphins. This group includes orcas and melon-headed whales.

Subspecies
None.

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 3.6-6.5m, Weight: 1-4 tonnes.

Physical description
Short-finned pilot whales are similar in appearance to long-finned pilot whales but have a grey cape.

Distribution
They inhabit subtropical Atlantic and Pacific waters.

Diet
Short-finned pilot whales feed on squid and cod.

Behaviour
They live in groups of six, although they can form larger groups. Females stay in the pod that they were born in for all their lives. They can dive to depths of 600m.

Conservation status
Short-finned pilot whales are common.