The scientific name of the Long-Beaked Common Dolphin – Delphinus capensis – refers to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa where specimens were first gathered in the 19th century to study this species.
Long-beaked common dolphins are capable of diving to at least 900 ft (280 m) and holding their breath for up to 8 minutes to feed on prey. The majority of their diet consists of small schooling fish (e.g., anchovies, hake, pilchards, and sardines), krill and cephalopods (e.g., squid). Dolphin groups may work together to herd schools of prey. This species has 47-67 pairs of small sharp conical teeth in each jaw used for grasping prey.
