The common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) grows to lengths of 2.3m-3.6m (7.5ft-8.5ft) and weights of up to 80kg (175lb). Common dolphins are colorful with a characteristic hourglass-shaped pattern on their sides. A yellow-buff color extends on each side of the dolphin, from the face to just behind the dorsal fin, where it narrows. A soft gray color widens from that point, reaching toward the tail. Narrow stripes of dark grey line the mouth, eye, and chin areas. The back is dark grey to black.
Delhinus delphis are very social animals and form pods of hundreds, even thousands of individuals. They work together to gather food and use a variety of sounds (clicks, squeaks, and creaks) to communicate. They are fast swimmming and often ride waves, leaping and frequently breaking the surface of the water.
- Mass: 100 to 136 kg
- Body Length: 5 to 8 ft
- Diet: schooling fish (herring, pilchard, anchovies, nocturnal hake, sardines, bonito, sauries), squid, octopus
- Gestation Period: 10 to 12 months
- Age at Sexual Maturity: 12 to 15 years
- Number of Offspring: usually 1
- Average Lifespan: 35 to 40 years
Classification
Where to See
Temperate and tropical oceans, worldwide distribution. Offshore, deep ocean. Occasionally found inshore, although the inshore populations are sometimes considered separate species (Dephinus capensis).
References
- Burnie D, Wilson DE. 2001. Animal. London: Dorling Kindersley. 624 p.
- Common Dolphin, American Cetacean Society. August 15, 2005.
- Alspaugh M. 2000. Delphinus delphis, Animal Diversity Web. August 15, 2005.
- Culik B. 2003. Delphinus delphis, common dolphin, Convention on Migratory Species. August 15, 2005.
