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.
White-beaked dolphin
Scientific name: Lagenorhynchus albirostris

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: DELPHINIDAE
Group: Marine Mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 50 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05-31.08
Gestation: 10 à 12 mois
Births: 01.06-31.08
Habitat:
Cold and temperate seas
Description:
The White-beaked Dolphin is a small cetacean from the Delphinidae family, easily recognizable by its white beak and distinctive markings on its body. It typically measures between 1.5 and 2.5 meters in length and weighs between 70 and 150 kg. This dolphin primarily inhabits the cold and temperate waters of the North Atlantic, particularly around Iceland, Greenland, and the North American coasts. It primarily feeds on fish and cephalopods, using group hunting techniques to capture its prey. The White-beaked Dolphin is often seen in small groups or families, and it is known for its complex social behaviors, including group play and acrobatic leaps. This dolphin has a lifespan of about 20 to 30 years in the wild. Although the species is not currently endangered, it faces threats from pollution, underwater noise, and ship collisions. Managing its marine habitats is crucial for the preservation of this species.
Recommended lens:
>=200 mm
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to observe and photograph dolphins without disturbing them. Capture their jumps and behaviors mid-air early in the morning or late in the day, when the light is soft and highlights the splashes and the texture of their skin. Always keep your distance and avoid disrupting their path or pod, especially if calves are present.
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