Dauphin commun

Finally got to see these up close on a whale watch — the short-beaked common dolphin’s distinctive yellow-tan flank patch is even more stunning than in pictures. Their energy and speed were incredible, and the guide pointed out how the species’ slender body helps them outrun predators.

I've been reading up on these dolphins for a school project, and the clear breakdown between the short-beaked and long-beaked species made it easy to understand their differences. The scientific details are presented in a straightforward way that doesn't feel overwhelming.

I’ve been watching the long-beaked common dolphin off the coast for years, and this model really captures the subtle differences in skull shape between the two species. The dorsal fin curve is spot on, which makes it great for my marine biology studies.