Bottlenose Dolphins

C.Hansford©

Scientists can identify each individual dolphin by its dorsal fin by the size, shape and scarring. Dolphins also use their dorsal fins for stability.

The Blowhole

Martin Gavet©

The blowhole (nostril) is based at the top of the dolphins head. This is where dolphins takes its breath, even when the dolphin reaches high speeds.

D.De Gruchy©

During dives, a muscle which is known as a plug covers the blowhole to stop water from entering into the dolphins lungs.

C.Hansford©

When surfacing, the blowhole then re-opens so that the dolphin can take another breath when reaching the surface, a cloud of moistured air is exhailed (as above), enabling another breath to be taken.

C.Hansford©

A dolphins diet ranges from mackeral, squid, sand eels and consume approx 15 - 33lbs a day.

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Carol Hansford08©