
Ziphiidae
Ziphiidae, commonly known as beaked whales, are a family of marine mammals characterized by their elongated beaks and streamlined bodies. They are deep-diving, elusive cetaceans found in oceans worldwide, often inhabiting deep, offshore waters. Beaked whales are known for their impressive diving abilities, reaching depths of over 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) to hunt for squid and other prey. They tend to be shy and difficult to observe, which makes studying them challenging. Despite their elusive nature, they play an important role in marine ecosystems as predators and indicators of ocean health.