Bottlenose dolphin

The largest and most commonly sighted dolphin in British seas. UK bottlenose dolphins are the biggest in the world - their large size helps them cope with our chilly waters!

Species information

Statistics

Length: up to 4m Weight: 500kg Average Lifespan: 45-50 years

Conservation status

Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981, listed under CITES Appendix II and classified as a Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. Also protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc.) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995

When to see

January to December

About

The most familiar of dolphins and the most likely to be seen from British shores, the bottlenose dolphin is found throughout the world's oceans, apart from at the poles. Closer to home, the best places to see these dolphins are the Moray Firth in Scotland, Cardigan Bay in Wales and the coasts of Cornwall, Northumberland and North Wales. They are highly social, usually found in small groups of up to 15 animals. They are very acrobatic, often jumping out of the water and will readily approach boats to bowride. bottlenose dolphins feed on fish, often working together to hunt.

How to identify

A chunky, fairly plain grey dolphin, darker above and paler below. Their beak is short and stubby and their dorsal fin is large, sickle-shaped and often marked with notches and scratches. Bottlenose dolphins are often sighted close to shore alone or in small groups. Look out for boisterous splashing and breaching - and don't be surprised if they approach your boat to check you out!

Distribution

Found all around the UK, common in the Moray Firth, Cardigan Bay and off Cornwall.

Habitats

Marine

Did you know?

Individal bottlenose dolphins can be recognised from the unique pattern of nicks and notches on their dorsal fin - a bit like a fingerprint! Dolphins can then be tracked over their lifetime using only photos of their fins.

How people can help

Report your sightings of bottlenose dolphins to your local Wildlife Trust. If you meet dolphins whilst at sea, maintain a distance of at least 100m, especially if groups contain calves. If the dolphins approach you, maintain a constant speed and allow them to interact on their own terms and leave at will. If you find a stranded bottlenose dolphin (dead or alive), please report it to the relevant authority (see www.wildlifetrusts.org/living-seas/marine-protected-areas/sightings). Entanglement in marine litter and ghost fishing gear is a threat to all marine mammals, so why not participate in a beach clean or simply pick up and safely dispose of any rope, strapping or net next time you're at the beach. To help dolphins and other marine wildlife, The Wildlife Trusts are working with sea users, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust or checking out our Action Pages.