Common dolphin

Introduction: The common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) is is a popular attraction on a dolphin cruise from either Swakopmund or Walvis Bay, because individuals ride the bow-waves of sea-going vessels. It is one of the more gregarious of cetaceans and can be seen in schools of hundreds. While feeding, it can dive to depths of up to 250m for as long as 8 min. Common dolphins whistle to communicate with other members of their own species and use sonar for echolocation.

Distribution: They can be found all year round off the coast of Namibia.

Diet: Small fish such as anchovies, sardines and squid and they can often be seen following fishing boats or herding prey together.

Colouring: A dark grey back with grey and mustard-coloured shapes on the side.

Breeding: They have a gestation period of 11 months producing a single calf.

Size: Average size is around 2.5m and they weigh about 150kg. Calves are around 1m long and weigh 18kg.