Reproduction
Like a lot of other big animals, pilot whales can be quit old. If is is like that the age that individuals are able to reproduce is high as well. Female pilot whales are fertile from the age of eight, males from the age of twelve.
In northern waters mating and breeding take place during summer (April up to September) Every three up to six years a female animal can have a calf after a gestation period of twelve up to sixteen months. (This is one of the longest known birth intervals of all cetaceans.)
At birth, calves measure about 1,5 to 2 meters (5 to 6.5 feet) and weigh about 75 kg (165 pounds). After 18 to 44 months, the calf stops nursing. Older and/or unreproductive females help care for calves in the social group.
Photo: whaleandsealcruise.com