Family Delphinidae (Dolphins)

IDENTIFICATION
The Striped Dolphin is characterized by two distinctive black stripes: a long band that begins near the eye and runs along the side of the body to the anus, and a short sliver that reaches forward from the black area of the dorsal fin to about halfway to the eye. These stripes show clearly against the bluish black and grey sides; the belly is grey or white. The Striped Dolphin grows to a length of about three metres.

MEALS, MANNERS AND MIGRATION
The Striped Dolphin eats squid, mackerel, sardines and other fishes. This species travels in large pods, and is often seen jumping clear of the water. Striped Dolphins migrate with the seasons.

STATUS
British Columbia is the northern limit of the Striped Dolphin's range in the North Pacific, but they are quite common in warmer, temperate waters. COSEWIC has designated these dolphins as not at risk.

DISTRIBUTION
Found in all the tropical and warm temperate waters of the world. In the eastern North Pacific they range from B.C. to the equator. There are only about a dozen records from B.C. waters -- most are beach strandings from Vancouver Island.