Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris) is in the Oceanic Dolphins family (Delphinidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 973 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in July.
Seasonal pattern in the national data: year-round resident. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.
When to photograph Spinner Dolphin: observations by month (U.S.)
About Spinner Dolphin
The spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris) is a small dolphin found in off-shore tropical waters around the world. It is famous for its acrobatic displays in which it spins along its longitudinal axis as it leaps through the air. It is a member of the family Delphinidae of toothed whales.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
Spinner Dolphin by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | 971 | July | Jun–May |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related mammals (Oceanic Dolphins)
Photography tips
- Keep a legal and safe distance: 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other large animals in national parks.
- Dawn and dusk are peak activity times for most mammals.
- Use your car as a blind on wildlife drives.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph Spinner Dolphin?
Nationally, July has the most observations, with the main season from June to May.
Where is Spinner Dolphin most often seen?
The most observations come from Hawaii.