Home » Calving Interval and Gestation Period — Odontoceti (Dolphins)
Among Odontoceti dolphins, calving intervals range from 2.5 to 5 years, with gestations of approximately 11 to 13.5 months. The Atlantic spotted dolphin stands out with the longest reproductive interval (5 years) and a gestation of 12.5 months. The common dolphin and Fraser’s dolphin have the shortest intervals (2.5 years). Risso’s dolphin has the longest gestation (13.5 months), reflecting its larger body size compared to other species in the group.
Chart: Calving interval (years) and gestation period (months) — Dolphins
| Species | Calving Interval | Gestation |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic spotted dolphin | 5 years | 12.5 months |
| Rough-toothed dolphin | 3.5 years | 12 months |
| Risso’s dolphin | 3 years | 13.5 months |
| Striped dolphin | 3 years | 12 months |
| Bottlenose dolphin | 3 years | 11 months |
| Fraser’s dolphin | 2.5 years | 12.5 months |
| Common dolphin | 2.5 years | 11 months |
On Tales – Whale Watching Madeira
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