- Wildlife
- Seals, turtles and other marine mammals
- Common dolphin
Cornwall WT
About
Common Dolphins (also known as short-beaked common dolphins) live up to their name in UK waters, but are still at threat from getting caught in fishing nets. They can sometimes be seen leaping out of the water (known as 'breaching') or slapping their flippers on the surface (known as 'loptailing'). Entire pods will follow boats, bow-riding in their wake.
How to identify
Slender dolphin, dark grey above, whiter below, with a cream stripe down the side. Dorsal fin is triangular and curved backwards.
Where to find it
Found in the North Sea and in the west of the UK.
Habitats
When to find it
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- Novermber
- December
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
How can people help
Common Dolphins and other marine mammals are under threat from pollution in our seas and are often caught in fishing nets. The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. This work has recently had a massive boost with the passing of the Marine Bill, promising sustainable development of the UK's marine environment. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.