There are at least 44 species of dolphin known to date. Most species live in the ocean, but a handful live exclusively in rivers! See all of them on our dolphin species list page and learn about some of the most recognizable ones on our species guide! Unlike humans, dolphins are conscious breathers, choosing when and how to take each breath. Several cetacean species have been found to have spindle neurons and elaborate limbic systems, and are linked to social bonds and processing emotions.
Spindle neurons, which are specialized brain cells were previously thought to be what set humans and great apes apart from other mammals. Orcas, or killer whales, are the largest of all oceanic dolphin species. Orcas exhibit startling intelligence, culture and family-based social structures. Studies indicate that there are at least 10 different orca eco-types with different diets, dialects, geographical range and social structure.
Learn more about orcas here. Dolphins are long-lived and slow to reproduce. Many species live to be over 40 years old.
Some well-documented individuals have been known to live significantly longer; an orca named Granny J2 from the Southern Resident killer whale population lived to be over some believe that may have even been over years old! The entertainment industry profits from twisting a beautiful and sentient species into a parody of itself.
After performances, or swim-with-dolphins programs, most captive dolphins languish in their cages or tanks and wait until the next show, or next feeding. Thanks to continued activism, several countries have banned the capture and captive display of cetaceans. While the majority of them spend their lives in saltwater, many can survive just fine in freshwater.
The smallest of their kind is feet long , while the largest is 30 feet! They are not only the friendliest or caring creatures but also the most intelligent ones. It is believed by scientists that comparing the ratio size of brain to body, dolphins take the 2nd place right after the humans! Dolphins never chew their food, they swallow it as a whole. Their teeth are used only to catch their prey.
It has been proved by scientists that dolphins give themselves names. When they are asleep, one part of their brain remains alert and awake. This keeps them safe from potential predators, and enables them to breathe while sleeping. They love to play with members of their pods and are friendly to even humans.
They are often seen playing and teasing other animals living underwater. Opposite to their name, Killer Whales belong to the dolphin family. Killer Whales, reaching up to a length of 30 feet, are the biggest of their kind.
Not known to many, Dolphins can migrate if their needs of food are not met. Even though they are not migratory animals, they will move to places where they have enough food and the climatic conditions are suitable to their body temperatures. Dolphins have very delicate skin, getting injured at the slightest touch of hard surface. However, due to their fast healing attribute, even the deepest of wounds can be healed within a short time.
They can swim at the rate of 3 to 7 miles per hour. Did you know dolphins can jump as high as 20 feet out of the water? They also possess a natural version of radar to find food and to navigate waters.
Would you like to see some dolphins in the wild off Virginia Beach? Call and book your sunset dolphin-watch cruise at These cruises run most nights between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
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