Dolphin facts

There are nearly 40 different types of dolphins swimming around in our world. And here’s a fun fact: 6 types are often referred to as whales, including orcas and pilot whales. [1]

The term “cetacean” might sound mysterious, but it’s actually the umbrella term that brings dolphins, whales, and porpoises into one big, aquatic family. But why are dolphins part of this exclusive club?

Well, all cetaceans share a few hallmark features: a streamlined body built for slicing through water, a layer of insulating blubber, and, of course, that iconic blowhole on top of their heads for quick surface breaths. Dolphins, with their playful demeanour and high intelligence, perfectly embody these traits, which is why they’ve earned their cetacean title. So, the next time you hear “cetacean,” think of it as the VIP pass that dolphins, whales, and porpoises carry to the marine world’s most exclusive gatherings!

Dolphins have an extraordinary ability to communicate with each other, and they do so through a fascinating blend of sounds, body language, and even touch. Let’s dive into their communication techniques. 

• Echolocation: Dolphins emit high-pitched clicks and listen for the echoes to gauge distance and identify objects around them.
• Whistles and clicks: Distinctive whistle patterns help dolphins recognise each other, much like human names. A series of clicks are often used to signify alarm or excitement.
• Body language: Dolphins communicate through physical gestures, like slapping their tails on the water’s surface to signal danger or attract attention. Leaping and belly flops can signify joy or playfulness.
• Touch: Physical touch is also an important aspect of dolphins’ communication. Dolphins nuzzle and pat each other, usually to strengthen social bonds.

Dolphins are quite the bubbly characters, literally! As air-breathing marine mammals, dolphins produce various types of bubbles for different reasons. They create bubble rings and streams, sometimes even while vocalising. But that’s not all—when they’re surprised, curious, or excited, they release what’s known as a ‘bubble burst’.

Unlike other mammals, dolphins have full voluntary control over their breathing, which is essential for their aquatic lifestyle. While making simple bubble rings might be straightforward, crafting stable rings shows that dolphins might possess a level of practice, expertise, and planning. [5]

Play is a pivotal part of dolphins’ lives, serving multiple vital functions for both the individual and the group. It’s a training ground for calves, where they hone essential locomotor skills. These skills are not just for fun; they are crucial for foraging and mating strategies.

Social intelligence is another crucial aspect learned through play. Dolphins get to know their peers, gaining insights into their characteristics and tendencies. This social learning provides room for cognitive development and innovation. In fact, calves are the primary source of novel play behaviours, which sometimes get adopted by the entire group, enriching the social learning environment.

Moreover, the complexities in the patterns of play increase when peers are involved. This indicates that play has a layered role, contributing to the development of problem-solving skills, social and communicative competencies, and strengthening social bonds. [7]

When it’s time to eat, dolphins don’t use their teeth to chew. They just grab their food, take a bite and swallow it whole. [13]

Dolphins are socialites—they hang out in groups called ‘pods’.

Pods can range from a few individuals, up to hundreds of individuals. But it’s not just for fun; living in a pod has some serious perks.

First off, there’s safety in numbers. Predators like sharks think twice before messing with a whole pod of dolphins. Plus, they work together to hunt, making mealtime a group effort. And let’s not forget, pods are like dolphin schools where youngsters learn essential life skills. So you see, for dolphins, a pod is both a family and a survival squad!

Sadly, yes there are a few dolphin species that are at threat or in danger of extinction. 

According to the International Union for Conservation for Nature (IUCN), 5 cetacean species and 19 subpopulations are critically endangered. These include the Vaquita, the Atlantic humpback dolphin, North Atlantic Right whale, and the Irrawaddy dolphin. 

Furthermore, 12 cetacean species and 13 subpopulations are endangered. These include the Sei whale, blue whale, Indus River dolphins, Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and Hector’s dolphin. [16]

Prepare to be amazed by this dolphin fact: the largest dolphin species is the orca! These awe-inspiring marine creatures are technically a part of the dolphin family. Adult male orcas can grow up to a staggering 9 metres /30 feet in length and weigh as much as 6,000 kilograms / 6 tons. Their sheer size is complemented by an equally impressive intelligence and intricate social structures.

Orcas are truly global citizens of the ocean! From the icy waters of the Arctic and Antarctic to temperate and even tropical seas, they’re found in a variety of marine environments around the world. They’re particularly abundant in the colder waters off of Norway, Alaska, Antarctica, and the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

These incredibly adaptable creatures have different ecotypes that specialise in particular kinds of food, which allows them to thrive in diverse habitats. Whether it’s the resident orcas of the Pacific Northwest feasting on salmon, or the transient orcas that roam more widely and eat marine mammals, these dolphins are wonderfully versatile. [17]