Majestic, enigmatic, and beautiful the Dolphins and the Whales are some of the most fascinating species that exist. Although they may seem similar in some aspects, such as their physical appearance and their intelligence, in this Dolphin Discovery blog, we will tell you about the differences between Dolphins and Whales.
Differences between Dolphins and Whales
Dolphins and Whales belong to the cetacean family; that is, they are mammals that are adapted to marine life; unlike fish, they breathe through their lungs and not through their gills; they give birth and nurse their young.
Size
One of the big differences between Dolphins and Whales is their size; Whales are one of the largest animals; they can weigh more than 170 tons. For their part, dolphins are smaller; they can measure between 1.5 and 4 m. The Bottlenose Dolphin is approximately 2.5 m long.
Dolphin and Whale Anatomy
Both Dolphins and Whales have very specific anatomical characteristics; for example, Whales have a large, rounded head, and their upper jaw is larger than the lower jaw. They descend from land animals with limbs, so their tail is horizontal, not vertical like a fish’s.
Dolphins are among the best swimmers in the world thanks to their fins, skin, and body, which are hydrodynamic and fusiform in the shape of a torpedo and are designed to minimize friction from the water when swimming.
Curious Facts about the Dolphins and Whales
Whales live in large groups that can be made up of a few or even hundreds of individuals. They have no hair, and their body fat is vital in keeping them warm.
The Dolphin’s dorsal fin is like a fingerprint, with a unique shape and indentation. They have “slow wave unihemispheric” sleep during which half of the brain enters a sleep state. At the same time, the other maintains visual and auditory awareness of the environment and allows the animal to surface to breathe. Dolphins are excellent imitators, as they have the ability to imitate motor and vocal behavior.
What do Dolphins and Whales eat?
Another difference between Dolphins and Whales is their diet. Whales feed on small marine organisms such as krill and plankton.
Dolphins feed on shellfish and fish such as sardines, herrings, and capelin. Adults can consume between 5 and 12 kg of fish.
As you will see, there are several differences between Dolphins and Whales. However, they are two species from which we continue to learn a lot.
The world of Marine Mammals
If you want to learn more about the world of Dolphins and other Marine Mammals, such as Sea Lions and Manatees, Dolphin Discovery is the place you have to visit.
In the Dolphin Discovery Habitats, you will have the best experience with its Interactive Swimming Programs, where you will learn everything about Dolphins and be in contact with them. In the same way, you will be able to get up close to the adorable Manatees, the only herbivorous Marine Mammals, and the fast Sea Lions.
Discover fascinating facts about their anatomy, diet, personality, and how Veterinarians and Specialists care for them. Learn about the importance of conservation, the initiatives that Dolphin Discovery carries out to protect species and the environment, and your actions to contribute to caring for the planet.
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Dolphin Discovery has 12 Habitats in four countries, know our locations and get ready to live the Experience of your Life.