Bottlenose Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins are one of the most well-known and loved marine mammals. They seem to always be smiling because of the shape of their mouths. Bottlenose dolphins are very smart and social. They live in groups called pods in oceans and bays worldwide.

Super Smart

Bottlenose dolphins are among the smartest animals on Earth. They can recognize themselves in mirrors. They use teamwork to herd fish into tight groups for easy eating. Dolphins have been seen using sponges on their noses to protect them while digging in the sandy ocean floor.

Social Lives

Dolphins live in pods that can have dozens of members. They communicate using clicks, whistles, and body movements. Each dolphin has its own unique whistle that acts like a name. Dolphins help sick or injured pod members by pushing them to the surface to breathe.

Fun Facts

• Bottlenose dolphins can hold their breath for up to 20 minutes.
• They sleep with one half of their brain at a time so they can keep breathing.
• Dolphins can swim up to 20 miles per hour.

Did You Know?

Bottlenose dolphins only sleep with one eye closed! One half of their brain stays awake to make sure they keep coming up to the surface to breathe.