Dolphins FAQs
Dolphins are very social creatures among
their own and with humans. It is said that they sometimes attempt
to mimic human words. Maybe they are really talking to us and
we just don't understand. Remember Flipper? They are highly
vocal and have unique voiceprints.
Whales are also considered part of the
Dolphin family. The biggest being the Killer Whale, or Orca. Dolphins
eat mainly fish, shrimp and squid. They use echolocation to find
fish.
Dolphins are mammals of the scientific
order Cetacea. A male Dolphin is called a bull, a female a cow
and a your Dolphin is called a calf. They swim together in "pods".
An adult, female Dolphin gives birth approximately
every 1 to 2 years. Mothers nurse a baby as long as 1 to 1 1/2
years. Mothers and babies commonly stay together for 2 to 3 years
and sometimes up to 6 years. Fortunately, mothers often
have the help of "nannies", other female Dolphins, that help
care for and protect the young. All work together to help protect the
pod when danger threatens. It is not uncommon for adults to have
scars from warding off sharks.
Man is unfortunately the biggest threat
to Dolphins. Dolphins are sometimes caught in commercial fishing
nets. They were once even hunted for their flesh and blubber. Although
man is a threat to Dolphins, they adapt very well together. Dolphins
have even been known to save peoples' lives.
Dolphins breathe air through a blowhole
located on the top of their head, and can hold their breath as long
as 5 to 8 minutes. When they sleep, only half their brain rests. This
keeps them alert to breathe and to watch for danger.
A Dolphin is smooth and rubbery in appearance. It
has a dorsal fin on its back which is used for balance. Flukes
located on the tail are used to propel them through the water. Pectoral
fins located on each side of the body are used for steering and stopping.
Of course we can't forget the rostrum - that's what gives the Dolphin
its continuous smile.
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