Short-beaked common dolphin Delphinus delphis Linnaeus, 1758

Suborder: Odontoceti Family: Delphinidae

Sightings in Madeira

December to May

ID characteristics

Dark cape making a “V” below the dorsal fin with conspicuous yellowish or tan thoracic panel. Black spot around the eye and stripe from middle lower jaw to flipper Tall, falcate and pointed dorsal fin

Medium, chunky beak with pale base