2007-06-06 04:31:35 · 2 answers · asked by hpfan 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
Breeding interval
The reproductive cycle occurs in females every 2-5 years
Breeding season
The peak of the mating season is in the spring in both Northern and Southern hemispheres
Number of offspring
1 (average)
Gestation period (carrying of an embryo or fetus)
14 to 16 months
Time to weaning (feeding of young with milk)
24 months (high)
Age at sexual or reproductive maturity (female)
8 to 11 years
Age at sexual or reproductive maturity (male)
10 years (average)
2007-06-06 04:40:09 · answer #1 · answered by Virus Type V 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Breeding seasons occur in the middle of summer according to hemisphere (July for the north, January for the southern oceans) and 12-13 foot calves are born after a 14-16 month gestation period. Females nurse their calves for two years and longer suggesting that nursing is both a social and a feeding function for sperm whales. Females are able to conceive at about 28 feet (8.5 meters) long, while male sperm whales are probably not able to mate until they are 39 feet (11.9 meters) long.
2007-06-06 11:41:36 · answer #2 · answered by Eric M 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋