Risso's dolphins seen off the north of Scotland

Risso's dolphins off Durness. Credit Colin and Natalie Morrison

Risso's dolphins off the north coast of Scotland.

This lovely image of a couple of Risso's dolphins was sent in by Colin and Natalie Morrison. They saw the dolphins about a mile offshore from Durness in the very far north of Scotland.  

These dolphins show the classic heavy scarring seen on Risso's dolphins. Risso's dolphins are relatively common all over the world outside of the Polar Circles, and are almost always seen in groups (pods). They can grow up to 4 metres long and weigh as much as 500 kgs. They have an easily identifiable dorsal fin.

Our thanks to Colin and Natalie for the image of the Risso's dolphins