Southern Right whale Dolphin
marine life of Namibia
Introduction: The graceful southern right whale dolphin, (Lissodelphis peronii), is a small and slender species of mammal found in cool waters of the southern hemisphere. It is 1 or 2 species of right whale dolphin, the other (Lissodelphis) is found in deep oceans of the northern hemisphere. It has an unusual appearance for a dolphin, as it is bereft of a dorsal fin, bringing about the 'right whale' into the common name. They are the only dolphin in the southern hemisphere without this feature.
Group sizes vary from a few to 250, although 50 is more of an average sighting. They are often observed with pilot whales and dusky dolphins. Patagonian toothfish are known to prey on southern right whale dolphin, and predators include sharks and the killer whale (Orcinus orca).
Distribution: Off the Namibian coast and a year-round occurrence is a localized area associated with the 'Lideritz upwelling cell area'.
Diet: Lantern fish, small squid and octopus.
Colouring: Upper parts of the body are black dipping into a saddle, with a sharp dividing line to the white flanks and white face, flippers, tapering towards the tail.
Breeding: Newborn calves are about 80cm in length.
Size: May reach 3m in length. Weight: Adults weigh between 60 and 100kg.
Good mid range lodge situated directly on the beach near the Cape Cross seal colony
An upmarket lodge on the Skeleton Coast - only visit-able as part of a fly in safari.
Accommodation in the Skeleton Coast, really catering for fisherman but hardened visitors who absolutely have to spend a few nights inside the Skeleton Coast Park may choose to stay here
A campsite in the Skeleton Coast Park, popular with fisherman during the summer holidays