Common Dolphin

With an 'hourgalss' patch on either side and aerial activity the common dolphin is an agile and majestic species, that may easily reach a speed of 40km/h.

Written by Jax, May 26 2019

Common Dolphin

With an 'hourgalss' patch on either side and aerial activity the common dolphin is an agile and majestic species, that may easily reach a speed of 40km/h.

Conservation information

Conservation status: Least Concern

They are easily recognizable by their striking hourglass or criss-cross pattern on either side with a yellowish and grey patch. Common dolphins were divided into two species – short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) and long-beaked common dolphins (D. capensis). But genetic studies in 2015 determined that all populations would be more logically grouped under one species (D. delphis) with four recognised subspecies. Common dolphins are widely spread across the temperate to tropical waters worldwide and feed on a wide variety of small schooling fish.

Photographer advice

Common dolphins are always on the move, so make sure that you are shooting at a higher frame rate. When travelling these dolphins tend to surface in the same direction again and again, so keep your camera pointed just in front of a group for your best chance to capture them surfacing. When they are seen in feeding groups, they tend to come up more sporadically.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large are these dolphins?

The common dolphin is about 1.7 to 2.5m long, weighing in at approximately 150-200 kg.
Calves are born at a size of 80-93cm in length and weigh between 7-10 kg.

Fun Fact: Common dolphins can be found in pods off up to 10 000 animals, our peak season for sightings is between March and August.

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