Bottlenose dolphin
Tursiops truncatus
Special features
Every bottlenose dolphin has its own “signature whistle”, which has the same function as the names of us humans.
They use this whistle to let others know that they are present, which is particularly important when communicating between mother and young animal.
They also supposedly use the whistle to “name” other dolphins.
Appearance
Bottlenose dolphins are the stockiest and strongest of dolphins.
They are classically recognized by their dark gray back and light gray belly, a short, blunt beak, and their characteristic but also deceptive “smiling” mouth.
In addition, their dorsal fins are covered with notches and marks that make each individual unique; just like human fingerprints.
Natural enemies
None
Dangerous/Venomous
Bottlenose dolphins are neither dangerous nor venomous.
Sketch
1. Blunt beak and “smiling” mouth
2. Dark gray back
Pro tips
It is not only the strongest, but in addition to apes and elephants, it is also one of the most intelligent mammals in the world.
You usually meet them while they are frolicking near the coast, sometimes in harbors and lagoons. They usually travel in small groups, but there are also loners roaming around from time to time.
Bottlenose dolphins have a complex social behavior: they can rely on each other when hunting, they look after each other's offspring, and sick individuals are supported instead of being left behind.
It is not uncommon for them to even live together with other dolphin species, whales, sharks, or sea turtles, or even sometimes help with fishing.
The parents spend years teaching the young their hunting techniques: The prey is first thrown into the air so that it can then be swallowed as a whole.
Text: Carolina Leiter, Felician Hosp, Pia Balaka
Illustration: Dive Dict
