Distribution of Marine Mammals to Florida Waters

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Abstract
Reports of the occurrence of 2 spp. of seals, one manatee, 12 whales, and 6 dolphins in Florida waters are presented. These are Monachus tropicalis, Cystophora cristata, Trichechus manatus latirostris, Eubalaena glacialis, Balaenoptera physalus, Balaenoptera borealis, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, Megaptera novaeangliae, Physeter catodon, Kogia breviceps, Stenella plagiodon, Stenella frontalis, Stenella longirostris, Steno bredanensis, Delphinus delphis, Tursiops truncatus, Grampus orca, Pseudorca crassidens, Globicephala macrorhyncha, Mesoplodon europaeus, and Ziphius cavirostris. Extension of previously known range are indicated for Eubalaena glacialis, B. acutorostrata, S. longirostris, Grampus orca and Ziphius cavirostris. Records extending the known breeding season, and of a tendency to assemble during a cold period are reported for Trichechus. Evidence of migratory movement is reported for Globicephala, Delphinus and S. plagiodon, and evidence of restriction to deep, clear water for S. plagiodon and Delphinus. Tursiops truncatus is shown to be present in the Everglades National Park throughout the year. An instance of a free, wild Tursiops supporting its dead young at the surface is descr., and a breeding record provided which extends its season for births to about Nov. first. A measurement of the speed of Tursiops is 12.2 m.p.h. or 10.7 knots. Body measurements are provided for B. physalus, B. acutorostrata, and Tursiops. Tables of skull measurements are provided from 2 B. acutorostrata (adult), 2 Tursiops. 1 Grampus, 1 Pseudorca, 5 Globicephala, and 4 Ziphius. A key in simple terms is provided for the identification of marine mammals which do or might occur in Florida waters.