Slowly, the Facts Emerge . . .

Additional specimens and bits of knowledge accumulated over the past century have enabled scientists to replace the myths with a more accurate picture.

Food for Whales

Beaks and other pieces of giant squid are frequently found in sperm whale stomachs.
Imagine what ferocious battles must take place when these huge ocean predators lock in combat!

Illustration © Glen Loates

Battle Scars

Photo of whale skin with many sucker marks

Can you find the giant squid sucker marks in this photograph of real whale skin?
Click on the photograph above for a closer look.

Ocean Planet Exhibition Floorplan

Smithsonian Giant Squid Overview Page

gene carl feldman / gene@seawifs.gsfc.nasa.gov