While they share some physical similarities with dolphins, like being toothed whales with a streamlined body, they belong to a different family:
* Pilot whales belong to the family Globicephalidae.
* Dolphins belong to the family Delphinidae.
Here are some key differences:
* Size: Pilot whales are generally much larger than dolphins, with some species reaching up to 27 feet long.
* Shape: Pilot whales have a more rounded head, while dolphins have a more pointed snout.
* Social structure: Pilot whales are known for their strong social bonds and complex social structures, which differ from those of most dolphins.
Therefore, pilot whales are not called dolphins, but rather have their own distinct name and classification.