Rare records of the false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) in the Adriatic Sea

Abstract

In spring 2021, four unusual encounters with a group of false killer whales were recorded in Kvarner Bay, Northern Adriatic Sea. A minimum of five individuals, including a calf, were observed and two photos were taken corroborating species identification. These are the first reported sightings of the species in the Adriatic Sea since the mid-twentieth century. In addition, another encounter was revealed that occurred at the end of the 2000s in the same location and should be added to the list of historic observations. These reports were obtained by chance and show the importance of citizen science in obtaining data on rare marine species. The information gathered goes towards a better understanding of the distribution of the species in the Mediterranean Sea.

Whales and dolphins of the Adriatic Sea

“…Between April and May 2021, a group of false killer whales was repeatedly observed by a professional diver near the Adriatic Gate Container Terminal in Rijeka, Croatia (Holcer et al, 2021). The diver provided a detailed description of the animals, as well as two photographs taken on May 21 st , 2021, when the animals were observed in tight formation at about 300 m from Acta Adriatica 65 (2024): 75-121 shore.…”

“…The diver provided a detailed description of the animals, as well as two photographs taken on May 21 st , 2021, when the animals were observed in tight formation at about 300 m from Acta Adriatica 65 (2024): 75-121 shore. The photos portrayed at least five individuals including one calf (Holcer et al, 2021).…”