Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Bottlenose dolphin
Scientific name: Tursiops truncatus

IUCN Status: Not Threatened
Family: DELFINIDAE
Group: Marine mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 50 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01-31.12
Gestation: 200 à 300 jours
Births: 31.12-15.01
Habitat:
Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Pacific and Indian Oceans
Description:
The bottlenose dolphin is one of the most well-known and widely distributed dolphin species across warm and temperate seas. It is easily recognizable by its 'bottle-shaped' rostrum and dynamic social behavior. Highly intelligent, it lives in social groups called 'pods,' and its communication is varied and sophisticated. The bottlenose dolphin primarily feeds on fish and squid, often using group hunting techniques. Although not currently threatened, it is sometimes affected by marine pollution and accidental captures.
Recommended lens:
>=400 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the bottlenose dolphin using a telephoto lens to capture its social behaviors and acrobatics in the water. It is best to photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the dolphins are more active. Be ready to capture dynamic moments, such as jumps and group play, while maintaining a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animal.
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