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Bottlenose Dolphins

C.Hansford©

Scientists can identify each individual dolphin by its dorsal fin by the size, shape and scarring. Dolphins also use their dorsal fins for stability.

The Blowhole

M.Gavet©

The blowhole (nostril) is based at the top of the dolphins head. This is where dolphins takes its breath, even when the dolphin reaches high speeds.

D. De Gruchy©

During dives, a muscle which is known as a plug covers the blowhole to stop water from entering into the dolphins lungs.

C.Hansford©

When surfacing, the blowhole then re-opens so that the dolphin can take another breath when reaching the surface, a cloud of moistured air is exhailed (as above), enabling another breath to be taken.

The Jaw Clap

Is when a dolphin snaps its jaws together, (loud) which indicates a warning to other dolphins.

Sleep

Dolphins remain motionless just below the surface with only one eye open. One half of the brain is switched off at a time whilst the other stays awake. Then the dolphin will fan their flippers so that they rise to the surface to take their breath of air and will then gradually sink below the surface to carry on with their so-called nap.

Feeding

C. Hansford©

Their diet ranges from mackeral, squid, sand eels and consume approx 15 - 33lbs a day.

Sonar

Is used by dolphins to echolocate.

Echolocation

Cetaceans use this system to get used to their surroundings. They also navigate and find food by sending out high pitched frequency sounds and interpreting the returning sounds that echo back. Dolphins can tell by the size of objects and thickness even from a distance.

Melon

Is based at the front of the dolphins head.

Teeth

Dolphin's use their teeth fo grabbing their prey. Dolphin's dont chew on their food, they swallow their food whole.

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