Common dolphin (Delphinus delphis )
Family Delphinidae

Description: Like the spinners, common dolphins are slender and streamlined. They are slightly larger than spinners growing up to 2.5m in length. The common dolphin can be recognised by its conspicuous hourglass coloration pattern. The dark grey colour of the back extends down to the flanks as a V-shaped saddle. A distinct yellow patch in front of the saddle and grey patch behind create the hourglass effect. No other dolphin in the UAE has this colour pattern. A closer view will show a narrow dark stripe running from the flipper to the beak. Although common dolphins may bowride and leap out of the water, they do not spin. Schools of up to 100 common dolphins may be seen.

Habitat: Generally inhabit deep water offshore, but may come into shallower water to the west of Abu Dhabi.

Range: Known only from skeletal remains in western Abu Dhabi, but are probably more common off the UAE east coast.

Comment: Sometimes called 'Abu Salaama' by local fishermen, a name that translates as 'Father of Peace'.