#cetacean behaviour

[bitch-dont-krill-my-vibe]

Marguerite formation:

Sperm whales can be targeted by groups of orcas. When this occurs, the sperm whales often adopt a Marguerite formation. This defensive formation can protect a calf or weakened individual.


Orcas will attempt to isolate individuals through a ‘wound and withdraw’ strategy. If an individual does become separated, there have been instances where another sperm whale will leave the defensive formation and lead it back to safety while they are both being attacked.

Fun Fact: the Marguerite formation named after the French word for daisy, because it kind of looks like a daisy.

References: Pitman, R.L., Ballance, L.T., Mesnick, S.I. and Chivers, S.J., 2001. Killer whale predation on sperm whales: observations and implications. Marine mammal science, 17(3), pp.494-507. Whitehead, H., 2003. Sperm whales: social evolution in the ocean. University of Chicago press.