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Cetacean Species

Sagres, located on the southwestern tip of Portugal, is one of the country’s most important areas for cetacean observation. Influenced by deep offshore waters and productive upwellings, this region hosts a remarkable diversity of marine mammals. To date, 16 different cetacean species have been recorded in the area, including both resident and migratory species. In this section, we highlight the cetaceans most frequently observed in Sagres, offering an overview of the species visitors are most likely to encounter at sea.


Common Dolphin

Tropical to temperate waters worldwide. Primarily coastal species but can be also found in shelf, and oceanic waters, with a preference for upwelling-modified areas with steep sea-bottoms. Resident species, found all year in Sagres.

Bottlenose Dolphin

The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is a robust, highly intelligent species found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide. Coastal and offshore ecotypes show diverse behavior and diet, with some populations resident year-round in places like Sagres.

Harbour Porpoise

The harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) is a shy, small cetacean found in cold temperate waters of the Northern Hemisphere. Often solitary or in small groups, it inhabits coastal and shelf areas, including ports and estuaries, and is resident in Sagres year-round.

Risso's Dolphin

The Risso’s dolphin (Grampos griseus) has a heavily scarred body with a blunt, rounded forehead and no beak. Found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide, inhabiting coastal and oceanic waters between 200 and 1000m.

Minke Whale

The Minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) is a small baleen whale found in both tropical and polar waters. Known for its distinctive white flipper bands, it is a solitary feeder often spotted in the coastal waters of Sagres.

Fin Whale

The Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) is the second-largest animal on Earth, reaching lengths of up to 27 meters. It feeds on krill and small fish and migrates between hemispheres, with a population that’s currently increasing in Portugal.

Orca

Unmistakable, striking; robust torpedo-shaped black and white cetacean with a pointed head. The Ibearian orcas are the smalest, reaching between 5-6.5 meters when adults. Apex predator present in all oceans and most seas.