About the Risso's Dolphin

Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) is a unique and intriguing species of dolphin, known for its robust body and distinctive scarring. They have a stocky build, rounded head, and lack a prominent beak. Their colouration ranges from dark grey to nearly white with age, and they are often heavily scarred. These scars are a result of social interactions and encounters with prey. Hugely social animals, they are typically found in groups of 10-50 individuals, although larger aggregations can occur. They exhibit social solid bonds and engage in complex social behaviours.

Risso's dolphins are known to breach, spy-hop, and tail-slap. They tend to be found worldwide in temperate and tropical waters, but their movement patterns need to be better understood. We do know that they follow prey availability, which can lead to seasonal migrations.

Risso's dolphins have a worldwide distribution, but they are more commonly seen around the continental shelf and in deep water. 

Risso's dolphins face several threats, including bycatch in fishing gear, habitat destruction, pollution, and the impacts of marine noise pollution. They are also subject to hunting in some regions.

As water temperatures rise, their prey could migrate to different areas, potentially leading them to alter their range and behaviour.

Where to see Risso's Dolphins

Risso's dolphins are found in temperate and tropical waters around the world. They inhabit both coastal and deep offshore waters, often near the continental shelf. They typically prefer deeper waters, around 400 to 1,000 meters (1,300 to 3,300 feet) deep, but they are also found in shallower coastal regions. 

The Risso's here were actually photographed off the South Coast of England, United Kingdom. 

Interesting facts about Risso Dolphins

One of the most distinctive features of Risso’s dolphins is the scarring across their bodies. When a Risso’s dolphin is scratched, cut, or injured, they do not heal with the same skin pigmentation. The healing tissue has no pigmentation, meaning the Risso’s scars are especially pronounced.


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