Dolphins live in the sea, but they are not fish. They are mammals, the name given to a class of animals that all feed their young with milk from their mother. The mother gives birth to one baby at a time, caring for them until they are old enough to have babies of their own. Many animals belong to this class, including humans. Like humans, dolphins breathe air into their lungs and they live in families, called pods. Dolphins love playing games in the water and they enjoy being with humans. They communicate with each other using body movements and sound. Each dolphin has a unique whistle.

Dolphins have strong feelings. Mothers will stay with their young for up to three years. Families of dolphins swim together, feed together and play together. They protect each other from danger and care for the old and sick.

The seas are enormous and dolphins can swim wherever they want.

They are free. It is very hard for dolphins to live in a pool where they have no family and no space to swim.

The Marine Rescue Team Unit in Malta helps dolphins that get lost and hurt.

They help dolphins that need to find their way back to their families in the open sea.

What can you do to help?

Learn about dolphins in the wild. If you are lucky to see dolphins in the wild don’t get too close and don’t try to feed them.