No matter how old you are, dolphins captivate us all. That’s why we seize every chance to get close to them, whether at a theme park or a protected reserve, to observe their behaviour and their friendliness towards humans—since it’s nearly impossible for wild dolphins to approach you in the open sea.
But age aside, if you want a genuine connection with them, it’s best to learn what dolphins love to eat so they’ll show their true selves: greedy and sociable! Feed just one, and you’ll win the whole pod’s affection—always following their caretakers’ guidelines.
What Do Dolphins Eat?
Never feed these aquatic mammals without knowing their dolphin family or habitat—there are 34 subspecies, after all. An expert will explain this during your encounter, along with their social dynamics, how they’re trained to interact with humans, their intelligence, and of course, their diet.
One fascinating fact about dolphin feeding? Despite their toothy jaws, they don’t chew. They catch fish whole, expelling water via tongue and throat muscles, hydrating through their food—no need to drink like we do!
Dolphins are carnivores. Their diet varies by ocean and region, but favourites include squid, cod, sea turtles, plankton, and crustaceans. As mammals, dolphin calves nurse for up to 18 months on fat-rich milk, building strength to hunt independently.
Wild dolphins hunt daily to stay fit, consuming up to 10% of their body weight—10–22kg of fish per day. Imagine feeding one! For semi-captive dolphins, it’s easier: aquariums provide most meals, with snacks from visitors like you in exchange for play and affection.
How Do Dolphins Hunt?
Their intelligence shines in hunting. They use echolocation, emitting waves that bounce off objects and the seafloor to pinpoint prey—even in low light. But they’re not always gentle: some prey are stunned by a tail slap for easy capture.
They also corner targets in shallow water or dead ends, or team up for the "bait ball" technique, herding fish into a tight sphere for effortless feasting.
How Long Do Dolphins Live?
Lifespan depends on factors like freedom vs. captivity. Most dolphins live 20–35 years, but this varies by Delphinidae family, habitat (e.g., pink river dolphins), and diet. Ironically, captive dolphins often outlive wild ones, reaching 25–40 years thanks to consistent care.
Where Can I See Dolphins in Mexico?
Now that you know more about these awesome aquatic mammals, you’re probably eager to meet them. Luckily, swimming with dolphins is a top adventure activity in Mexico.
From Quintana Roo to Jalisco and Guanajuato, you’ll find dolphin encounters nationwide. We’ve made it easy—click here to choose your spot.
