Named for its uniquely wrinkled, cone-shaped teeth. The head slopes smoothly into the long beak with no forehead crease — a distinctive feature called a reptilian profile. Dark purplish-grey to black on the back; lighter grey sides with irregular pinkish-white blotch markings on the belly.
Well-developed echolocation suited to the deep open ocean.
Rough-toothed Dolphins produce whistles, clicks, and pulsed calls. They have been observed carrying and manipulating objects — suggesting problem-solving ability.
Known for a distinctive skim-feeding behavior — surfacing with the head raised and beak skimming the water surface, gliding forward to intercept prey.
Gestation
Approximately 11–12 months. Reproductive rate estimated at every 2–3 years.
Birth
Calves are estimated at approximately 40 inches long and 33 lbs at birth.
Calves
Nursing estimated at 12–16 months. Very little direct observation of calf behavior.
Estimated at 10+ years for both sexes.
Found in groups of 10–20, occasionally up to 100. Multi-generational pods have been documented.
Not known for dramatic aerial leaps. The skim-feeding posture is the most distinctive behavioral trait. Can swim at 15+ mph in short bursts.
Rough-toothed Dolphins are one of the few cetaceans documented to engage in object play — carrying items such as coconuts and pieces of rubber for extended periods.
36+ years. Threats include bycatch in pelagic drift nets and longlines, direct hunting, and marine debris ingestion.
Dolphin Store
