Atlantic Spotted DolphinPhotos, Pictures, Prints

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Stenella frontalis

The Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis) is a dolphin that lives in the Gulf Stream of the North Atlantic Ocean. Older members of the species display a distinctive spotted coloration.

This marine mammal is medium-sized, for a dolphin. Newborn calves are about 35–43 in (89–109 cm) long, while adults can reach a length of 2.26 m (7 ft 5 in) and a weight of 140 kg (310 lb) in males, and 2.29 m (7 ft 6 in) and 130 kg (290 lb) in females. Compared to the much smaller pantropical spotted dolphin, the Atlantic spotted dolphin is more robust. However, it shares its habitat with the pantropical spotted dolphin as well as the bottlenose dolphin.

The species exhibits a range of about ten different vocalizations, including whistles, buzzes, squawks and barks. Each of these corresponds with a different behavior.

Like many dolphins, these marine mammals are extremely gregarious. They gather in complex social groups of 5-15, often in mixed groups with common bottlenose dolphins. Additionally, they are fast swimmers. Because of this, they are known for their bow-riding and long, shallow leaping behaviors.

Their mating system consists of one male mating with several females. After that, the pod is highly protective of pregnant females. The dolphin’s gestational period is 11 months, and the mother cares for its calf for up to 5 years, with the help of the rest of her group.

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