About the Species
Common bottlenose dolphins are found worldwide. They are not picky, as they inhabit a wide variety of warm and tropical environments, including bays, harbours, estuaries, gulfs, and both in deep and shallow waters. Unlike mysterious, solitary, and deep swimming species (like white sharks), dolphins are coastal dwelling and extremely friendly. This, and their most adored, intelligent personalities, is why they are one of the most well-studied and beloved marine mammals across the globe.
Biology
Physical Traits
- In terms of size, the average length of a bottlenose dolphin ranges from two to three metres, and the average weight varies from 150-250 kg. Males tend to be bigger than females, and those living inshore are usually smaller than dolphins inhabiting offshore waters.
- In addition to their rubbery grey, delicate skin, their most notable physical trait is their bottle-resembling snout (hence their name).
Reproduction and Lifespan
- Bottlenose dolphins live on average to 40 years, with females living significantly longer than males.
- Depending on the pod or population, dolphins usually reach sexual maturity (ability to produce) at about 10 years old.
- Females have a gestation period (pregnancy duration) of about 12 months, and they typically give birth every 4.5 years, giving extensive care, time, and resources to their young once they are born.