Sperm whales live in complex matrilineal societies with cultural dialects and long-term social bonds that make noise pollution and hunting devastating to welfare.
Sperm whale social bonds are among the most complex of any animal. Individuals separated from their social groups by noise disturbance, ship strikes, or hunting experience a form of social isolation with profound welfare implications. Whales that strand in groups show remarkable loyalty to stranded companions, suggesting strong social attachment. Protecting the acoustic environment that sperm whales depend on for communication is a direct welfare intervention.