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Deraniyagala’s Beaked Whale (Mesoplodon hotaula)
Dark top, lighter underside
Small curved fin set back
Tail base flattened sideways
Small tapered head, sloping forehead
Dark top beak, pale lower jaw
Short flippers that tuck into pockets
Few long scars; small round marks
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Length: Medium beaked whale estimated around 4–5 metres
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Group Size: Rarely observed; likely solitary or small groups
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Key Features: Slender body, long beak, distinctive male tooth position
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Behaviour: Deep‑diving, elusive species known mostly from strandings
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Habitat: Tropical Indian Ocean, especially around Sri Lanka
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Conservation Status: Listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List
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