Dolphins

Dolphins are some of the smartest animals on Earth. They live in oceans and rivers around the world. Dolphins breathe air through a blowhole on top of their heads. They are actually mammals, not fish!

Life in the Ocean

Dolphins live in groups called pods. A pod can have just a few dolphins or hundreds. They work together to find food and protect each other. Dolphins eat fish and squid. They use clicking sounds to find food in dark water.

How dolphins use sound waves to find things underwater.
How dolphins use sound waves to find things underwater. (Malene Thyssen / Wikimedia Commons)

Super Smart

Dolphins can learn tricks and solve problems. They talk to each other using whistles and clicks. Each dolphin has its own special whistle, like a name. Scientists have seen dolphins use tools, like sponges to protect their noses while digging in sand.

Fun Facts

  • Dolphins can jump up to 20 feet out of the water.
  • They sleep with one eye open and half their brain awake.
  • A baby dolphin is called a calf.

Did You Know?

Some dolphins can swim up to 20 miles per hour. The biggest dolphin is actually the orca, or killer whale, which can grow up to 30 feet long!