SPINNER DOLPHIN

(Stenella longirostris)  

This species is found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. 

The Spinner Dolphin is a slender creature with a long, thin beak to which the distinct forehead slopes gently. The dorsal varies with both age and geographical form; it can lean forward, be curved, or be completely triangular in shape. The flippers are long and pointed, and a a stripe links it to the eyes. Eastern Pacific and Costa Rican animals are mainly grey, with other forms usually two- or three-tone. Both the Hawaiian and Whitebelly forms have a dark grey or black dorsal cape, paler flanks and sides, and a creamy-white belly.

All forms measure between 1.3 and 2.1m in length, and weigh between 45-75kg.

This species takes midwater fish and squid, and is different from other dolphins in that it feeds by night.

Units range from a few animals to a few thousand, often mixing with other cetacean species such as Pilot Whales and Spotted Dolphins. Spinner Dolphins are dramatically acrobatic, with somersaults, high spinning leaps and other aerial movements popular. They vocalise with whistles and clicks, and can travel as fast as 20kph.

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN.....COMMON DOLPHIN.....STRIPED DOLPHIN.....RISSO'S DOLPHIN

SHARKS....ORCA'S.....GALLERY.....LINKS.....POSTCARDS.....SOUNDS....GIFTS.....KIDS ZONE....PSP TUBES.....ICQ SKINS