Short-beaked Common Dolphin
Delphinus delphis
Credits: 
Rosa Gambóias

The Short-beaked Common Dolphin is small, with a slim figure, prominent beak and a high and sickle dorsal fin. This species has a dark mark on the back which forms an inverted beak at the dorsal fin level. On the front part of the flanks it presents a yellow or light-brown spot that becomes grey at the back. The belly is white. As adults, males are slightly larger than females and can measure up to 2.3 m length and weigh more than 100 kg.

Short-beaked common dolphin is the most common cetacean along the Portuguese coast. It can be found either very close to shore or in ocean waters, although it is more common in depths around 100 m. It is a gregarious dolphin that can be observed in large groups, sometimes with several tens of individuals.

The waters around Peniche and Nazaré coast as well as around Berlengas archipelago are prime locations to observe this species. This is due to the high abundance of sardines in these waters, which are their favourite prey. There are several records of big groups of males, females and immatures and observations of all types of behaviours along their reproductive cycle such as foraging, social interactions between members of the group, movements between feeding areas and even courtship. Short-beaked Common Dolphin often follows boats and frequently presents air behaviour, allowing fantastic observations.