RISSO’S DOLPHIN Watching (Grampus Griseus)
The Risso’s Dolphin is one of the larger species of dolphin and can be seen off the coast of Southern California all year round. Though not seen as frequently as their cousins, the Common Dolphin or the Bottlenose Dolphin, Risso’s Dolphin are still a treat to see! Risso’s generally spend their time offshore, hunting for their primary food source, squid. Each individual Risso’s can be identified by their dorsal fin or by the white markings on their skin, caused by the squid that Risso’s prey on.
Risso’s can reach lengths of up to 12.5 feet and will usually weigh around 650 pounds. They travel offshore in small groups of 3-30 animals, and are found in warm waters world-wide.
This species of dolphin is similar to the Minke Whale in that they are relatively shy, but can occasionally be seen breaching or lob-tailing.