Bottlenose Dolphin
Tursiops truncatus
Similar species
Superficially similar to a number of other dolphins. As with most other dolphins, positive identification may depend on seeing the whole animal well.
Identification
There are generally recognised two species of Bottlenose Dolphin, a cosmopolitan form (truncatus) that occurs throughout the world and another confined to certain inshore areas aduncus. There is still debate over the genetic exclusiveness of many populations, so the identification of these two species at sea may be a moot point. Offshore Bottlenose Dolphins are generally larger and more heavily built and are thought to have a distinct pale mark behind the dorsal fin. Bottlenose Dolphins in general are distinctive in their lack of obvious features, being largely grey on the back and pale below. They have a robust beak and there is a distinct crease at the point the beak meets the melon. The dorsal fin is a significant feature to the trained eye, being tall, swept back, pointed and strongly hooked on its trailing edge. Bottlenose Dolphins regularly approach vessels to bowride and are highly active or `playful`. In offshore habitats, the species regularly associates with other Delphinids such as Long-finned Pilot Whales.
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