Did You Know About These 10 Types Of Dolphins Found Around The World?

OT Staff

Bottlenose Dolphin

Widely distributed, these dolphins are known for their intelligence and friendly nature. They have a short, stubby beak and can grow up to 4 metres in length. They are commonly seen in aquariums and marine parks.

A view of a Bottlenose Dolphin leaping out the water | Shutterstock

Orca (Killer Whale)

Despite their name, orcas are dolphins and the largest members of the dolphin family. They are apex predators, with a diverse diet including fish, seals, and even whales. Orcas are highly social, living in pods with complex communication.

A mother and calf orca leaping over water | Shutterstock

Common Dolphin

Recognised for their distinctive hourglass-shaped markings, common dolphins are among the most abundant species globally. They can reach speeds of 60 km/h and are often seen in large groups, known as pods.

A shot of short-beaked common dolphin | Shutterstock

Spinner Dolphin

Known for their acrobatic spinning behaviour, these dolphins can rotate up to seven times in the air. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions and typically live in large groups.

Three Spinner Dolphins underwater | Shutterstock

Dusky Dolphin

Native to the coasts of New Zealand and South America, dusky dolphins are known for their playful behaviour and fast swimming. They are characterised by a dark grey body with lighter markings.

A close-up of an elegant Dusky Dolphin | Shutterstock

Risso's Dolphin

Distinguished by their scarred skin, Risso’s dolphins have a robust body and are often seen in deep oceanic waters. They primarily feed on squid, using echolocation to track prey. Risso's dolphins are found in temperate and tropical regions worldwide.

A shot of a Risso's Dolphin | Shutterstock

Pacific White-Sided Dolphin

Found in the North Pacific, these dolphins have a distinct white belly and dark, sleek body. They are often seen in large pods and are known for their high-speed swimming and playful behaviour.

A Pacific White-Sided Dolphin catches a fish at an aquarium in Canada | Shutterstock

Hourglass Dolphin

A rare species, the hourglass dolphin is found in the cold waters of the Southern Ocean, around Antarctica. Their name comes from the white markings on their body, resembling an hourglass.

A close-up of an Hourglass Dolphin | Shutterstock

Amazon River Dolphin

Also known as the pink dolphin, they inhabit the rivers of the Amazon Basin. These dolphins have a distinctive pinkish hue, which intensifies with age. They are freshwater dolphins and feed on fish, crabs, and small aquatic animals.

A shot of an Amazon River Dolphin | Shutterstock

Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin

These dolphins are found along the coasts of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are characterised by a small hump on their back, a long beak, and a white or pale belly. Known for their coastal habitats, they often swim in shallow waters.

A shot of Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin | Shutterstock

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