- How to Watch
- Where to Watch in the UK
- Regional Groups
- Species Identification
- Recommended Boat Operators in the UK
- Sea Watch Surveys
- Marine Code of Conduct
- If you find a stranding
Species Identification Guide
Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis)
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Length:
0.8-0.85m/2.6-2.8ft (newborn); 1.6-2.6m/5.3-8.6ft (adult).
Head and Beak:
The common dolphin has a low, tapering forehead with distinct groove separating long slender black beak, sometimes tipped white.
Fin and Markings:
Centrally-placed slender dorsal fin, sickle-shaped or erect. Common dolphins have a characteristic hourglass pattern of tan or yellowish-tan on lower flanks, becoming pale pale grey behind fin.
ID:
Usually animated; the common dolphin often breaches and bow-rides. Hourglass pattern of tan and grey on flanks; long slender beak.
Status and Distribution:
Common on Atlantic seaboard of Europe from Scotland south to the Iberian Peninsula, in the Western Channel and Irish Sea. Uncommon in the Mediterranean Sea and rare in the North Sea. Common Dolphins are recorded in all months of the year, but in coastal UK waters mainly July to October.
View detailed distribution maps
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Media
Download Common Dolphin movie
Download Common Dolphin sounds