What is a Dolphin?

Dolphins are mammals that swim in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. They can live to up to 40 years old. Dolphins also live in groups called pods. Bottlenose dolphins are the most common of all the dolphin species .

Diet

Dolphins eat small fish, a few crustaceans, and small squid.

Predators

Large sharks like great white sharks, bull sharks, and tiger sharks feed on dolphins.

Dolphin Features

Communication

Dolphins are very smart. They even have their own language made of clicks and whistles. One click or whistle could mean anything. Dolphins even have their own names!

Ecolocation

A dolphin uses echolocation to find fish or predators. They make high pitched noises that spread through the ocean. When it hits an object, it reflects back to the dolphin. The dolphin then has a clear image in its head about the object.

Hunting Style

When a dolphin finds fish, it tells the others. The pod works together to hunt the fish. First, the dolphin circle around the fish, keeping them in a small group. Then, the dolphins swim in a way that the fish have to go upwards. The dolphins force them to the surface, so they have no escape. When they reach the surface, the dolphins eat.

Defense from Predators

Sharks usually aim for young and ill dolphins. The pod works together to protect themselves. They try to ram their noses into the shark. Having many noses being rammed into its gills, the shark usually flees.

Food and Drink in One

Dolphins do not drink water because they live in saltwater. They get water from fish that they eat instead.

Good Eyesight

Dolphins have great eyesight under and above water. They can see better than us both in the dark and light.

Adult Play

Dolphins are known to be the most playful animals in the world. Even when they mature, they play with each other.