Fauna
Mammal

Dusky Dolphin

Lagenorhynchus obscurus

Also known as Fitzroy's Dolphin, Dusky-Sided Dolphin

Dusky dolphins are highly social, energetic cetaceans renowned for their spectacular aerial acrobatics, often leaping and flipping high above the water. They live in fluid, fission-fusion societies that can swell into super-pods of hundreds of individuals during cooperative feeding sessions. Their striking, multi-colored bodies feature a dark grey cape, light grey flanks, and a white belly, helping them blend into the shimmering ocean depths.

AcrobaticMarine MammalSocial
Dusky Dolphin reference
AllenMcC. / CC BY 3.0 · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAnchovies, Sardines, Squid
Predators
  • Killer Whale
  • Great White Shark
  • Broadnose Sevengill Shark
ThreatsGillnet entanglement, marine pollution, and unsustainable tourism disruption
HabitatsCoastal waters, continental shelves, and deep offshore canyons
Life span20 to 25 years
Classification
  1. FamilyDelphinidae
  2. SpeciesLagenorhynchus obscurus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe from a boat at a respectful distance.
What to notice
Look for a short, blunt beak, a curved two-toned dorsal fin, and frequent high-leaping behavior.
Support conservation
Adhere strictly to local marine mammal viewing regulations and never attempt to swim with or feed them.
Responsible observation
  • Maintain Distance: Keep boats at a slow, steady speed and avoid cutting off their travel path.
  • Watch for Leaps: Look for consecutive jumps, which often signal social activity or herding behavior.
  • Limit Noise: Minimize sudden engine changes to avoid disrupting their acoustic communication.
Related species
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