Risso's dolphins

A very unique species of dolphin - the Risso's dolphin is easily recognised by its scar-covered robust body and rounded forehead. They are born dark grey and white accumulate scars over their lifetime, until they are almost entirely white at maturity. These scars may be caused by encounters with other Risso's dolphins and from the sharp beaks of their prey - squid. Risso's dolphins are resident in the Azores, so over the years I was there I had many encounters with them. The Azorean Risso's dolphins tend to be shy in nature and it's not often that you see them leap out of the water, however I had a few lucky moments that I managed to see and photograph this behaviour. 

A well-scarred adult Risso's dolphin

A recently born Risso's dolphin

Adult and juvenile

Risso's dolphin leaping