Dolphin and Whale Watching in Gran Canaria

The bottlenose dolphin  (Tursiops truncatus)  is one of the best known and studied dolphins, despite which scientists do not end up agreeing on the number of species that exist since until a few years ago only one species was identified. , current widespread opinion differentiates between the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin and the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin.

The average length ranges from 2.6 m. to 3.8 meters, bringing the maximum recorded in the Canary Islands closer to 3.5 m. Its weight is between 150 and 350 kg and can reach 500 kg. They live between 30 and 40 years, reaching sexual maturity at 11 or 12 years. Pregnancy lasts about 12 months and they usually have one calf, which usually measures 1-1.3 m. and weigh between 30 and 40 kg. They give birth every 2-3 years and the breastfeeding period lasts between 12-18 months.

They live in small family groups of up to a dozen animals that sometimes join other groups, and form large flocks. With an optimally adapted skin to the marine environment and a powerful flukes, the bottlenose dolphin can reach a speed of 50 km/h. They feed on squid, octopus, mackerel, sardines and other fish species.